7 Shocking Facts About Seattle's July Weather: Why The 'Rainy City' Becomes A Summer Paradise
Forget everything you think you know about Seattle's climate. While the city is infamous for its perpetual drizzle and gray skies, the month of July flips the script entirely, transforming the Emerald City into a bona fide summer paradise. As of this $current_date, the data confirms that July is not just a nice month; it is, statistically, the absolute best time to experience the Pacific Northwest, offering a breathtaking contrast to the dreary winter months.
This deep dive into the latest climate data and recent trends reveals the shocking truth about Seattle weather in July, detailing the average temperatures, minimal rainfall, and the emerging threat of extreme heat events that visitors and residents must be aware of for the coming years.
Seattle's July Climate Profile: A Statistical Breakdown
July marks the definitive start of Seattle's dry and warm season, a period eagerly anticipated after the prolonged "June Gloom." The weather is characterized by near-perfect conditions for outdoor activities, long daylight hours, and a significant drop in precipitation thanks to the stable high-pressure systems that dominate the region.
- Average High Temperature: 75°F (24°C)
- Average Low Temperature: 55°F (13°C)
- Overall Average Temperature: 67°F (20°C)
- Average Monthly Rainfall: 0.76 inches (19.33 mm)
- Average Rain Days: 2 days
- Average Sunshine Hours: 255 hours
- Daylight Hours: Approximately 15–16 hours
The average daily high temperature typically increases as the month progresses, starting around 74°F and climbing toward 79°F by the end of July, making the latter half of the month the warmest and driest.
7 Surprising Facts That Define Seattle's July Weather
The numbers alone don't tell the full story. To truly understand why July is the peak tourist season and a local favorite, you need to look at the unique phenomena and climate trends that set this month apart.
1. It's One of the Driest Months of the Year
Despite its reputation as the "Rainy City," Seattle's July rainfall is incredibly low, averaging a mere 0.76 inches. This makes it one of the driest months, often drier than many cities in Southern California. The persistent, light drizzle characteristic of winter is replaced by mostly clear skies, with an average of only two days seeing measurable precipitation. This dramatic shift is due to the strong high-pressure ridge that establishes itself over the Pacific Northwest, effectively blocking the marine layer and storm systems.
2. The 'June Gloom' Effect Vanishes
Seattle residents often joke about "Juneuary" because June can still be cool, cloudy, and occasionally wet. July, however, is the month when the city reliably sheds its clouds. The fraction of time spent overcast or mostly cloudy decreases significantly as the month begins, leading to a massive spike in sunshine hours—averaging 255 hours for the month. This ensures long, sunny days perfect for exploring the Puget Sound region.
3. Extreme Heat Events Are Becoming More Common
While the average high temperature is a comfortable 75°F, recent climate trends show a significant shift toward more extreme high-temperature events. The record for the warmest July in Seattle’s history occurred in 2015, where the average daily high temperature soared to 82.6°F. This trend of hotter, drier summers is a critical factor for both residents and visitors, as air conditioning is not a standard feature in many older Seattle homes and buildings.
4. Low Humidity Makes the Heat Bearable
Unlike many East Coast or Midwest cities, when Seattle does experience heat, it is often a dry heat. The city benefits from its proximity to the cool Pacific Ocean, and the overall humidity levels remain relatively low. This means that even days that push into the 80s or 90s Fahrenheit feel significantly more comfortable than the same temperatures in areas with high mugginess.
5. It’s Peak Season for Outdoor Adventures
The combination of warm temperatures, minimal rain, and long daylight hours makes July the undisputed best time to visit Seattle for warm-weather activities. This is the prime season for kayaking on Lake Union, hiking in the nearby Cascade Mountains, exploring Olympic National Park, and enjoying the city’s numerous street fairs and festivals. The perfect weather is the primary reason July and August are the peak tourist season.
6. Record-Breaking Rainfall is a Century-Old Memory
While the current average rainfall is less than an inch, the record for the most monthly precipitation in July was 2.4 inches, a record that has stood for over a century. Modern July weather is consistently dry, indicating a long-term pattern of summer drought conditions in the Puget Sound area.
7. The Best Time for Sea-Tac Travel
Travelers flying into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac) during July can expect the most reliable travel conditions of the year. The lack of major storm systems, snow, or heavy fog means fewer weather-related delays compared to the winter months, making July a predictable and pleasant time to arrive in the Evergreen State.
Preparing for Your July Visit to Seattle
If you are planning a trip to Seattle, July is the ideal choice, but a few preparation tips will ensure a perfect experience:
What to Pack and Wear
- Layers are Key: While daytime highs are warm, the marine layer can still bring cool evenings. Pack light t-shirts, shorts, and a light jacket or sweater for the morning and evening.
- Sun Protection: With 255 hours of sunshine, the UV index can be high. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential, especially when on the water or hiking.
- Water Bottle: The dry heat and long days mean you need to stay hydrated.
Key Entities and Activities to Enjoy
July's weather opens up a host of possibilities that are less enjoyable during other times of the year:
- Ferry Rides: Take a Washington State Ferry across the Puget Sound to Bainbridge Island or Bremerton for stunning, clear views of the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier.
- Pike Place Market: Explore the market without the winter crowds and enjoy fresh, seasonal Pacific Northwest produce.
- Gas Works Park: Perfect for kite flying and enjoying a picnic on a warm July evening.
- Hiking: Access to high-elevation trails in the Cascades is generally clear of snow by July, offering world-class hiking opportunities.
In conclusion, July is the month that completely redeems Seattle's reputation. It offers a glorious, sunny, and dry experience that rivals any summer destination, making it the most sought-after time to visit the city. Just be prepared for the occasional heat spike, a growing reality of the region's changing climate.
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