Seattle is about to get a taste of some serious spring weather, and it’s not the kind that calls for a stroll in the park. On Thursday, expect heavy rain and strong winds to make their way through the area, bringing a bit of a chaotic, soggy day for everyone. Whether you’re heading out to work, running errands, or just trying to get through the day, here’s what you need to know so you can be prepared.
Rain, Rain, and More Rain: What’s Coming?
Thursday morning is going to start with a steady drizzle at first, but don’t get too comfortable—by 6 AM, the rain will pick up in intensity. Expect heavy showers to arrive around mid-morning, and that’s when things will really get wet. We’re talking about intense downpours that could lead to as much as 1 inch of rain in just a few hours.
By 9 AM to 12 PM, the rain will be at its peak, so if you have to get out, be prepared for wet roads and poor visibility. Morning commuters, take note: it’s going to be a slow start to the day, so give yourself a little extra time to get to work or school. If you can, try to avoid any unnecessary trips, because these conditions could really slow things down on the roads.
Strong Winds: Hold On to Your Hats!
If the rain weren’t enough, winds will be another big factor to contend with. Gusts of up to 50 mph are expected to hit Seattle, especially as we move through the late morning and early afternoon. These winds will make it feel a lot colder than the actual temperature, and could even make walking and biking a bit of a challenge.
Those who live in more exposed areas—like near the waterfront or in neighborhoods like Ballard and Magnolia—could see some of the strongest winds, which might bring down small branches, trash cans, or anything else not secured. So if you’ve got outdoor furniture or anything loose in your yard, bring it inside or tie it down. Be sure to take extra care on the roads as well, because these gusts can make it hard to keep your car steady, especially if you’re driving a larger vehicle.
Flooding Risk: Watch Out for Water
The rain won’t be the only issue. With the amount of water coming down, areas that tend to flood could see some standing water on the roads. That means neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, South Lake Union, and other low-lying areas might experience localized flooding. If you’re out driving, be sure to watch for puddles or flooded streets. It only takes a few inches of water to make a street impassable, so if you see any roads covered in water, don’t drive through them. It’s always better to find a safer route.
The rain combined with the wind will also make driving even more challenging, so slow down, give yourself extra space between vehicles, and be mindful of sudden downpours that can reduce visibility quickly. You might also want to double-check your commute options if you rely on public transit, as buses and trains could be delayed due to the weather.
Evening: Still Wet, Still Windy
The storm won’t end as quickly as it started. Light showers will linger through Thursday evening, making things feel damp and chilly. The wind won’t back off immediately either, so it’s likely you’ll still feel the gusts throughout the night. Expect the worst of the weather to clear by midnight, but it will still feel cool and breezy even after the rain stops.
If you have evening plans, be sure to bundle up and bring that umbrella along—just in case the rain decides to make a quick comeback. The winds will make it feel much colder than the actual temperature, so stay warm while you’re out.
How to Stay Safe and Dry
We know it’s not the ideal weather for running around town, but if you need to be out, here are a few tips to stay as safe and dry as possible:
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Keep an Eye Out for Flooding: Areas with poor drainage could see flooding, so if you notice standing water on the roads, take another route. Avoid any low-lying areas where flooding could occur.
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Secure Outdoor Items: The wind will pick up, so anything left outside, like patio furniture or garbage cans, could be blown away. It’s a good idea to either bring those items inside or tie them down.
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Drive Carefully: The rain and wind will make driving tricky, especially if you’re in a larger vehicle. Slow down, use your headlights, and stay a safe distance from others on the road. Wet, slippery roads could cause you to lose control if you’re not careful.
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Dress for the Weather: With the rain and wind, it’s best to dress in layers. Make sure you’re wearing waterproof gear like a rain jacket and boots, and don’t forget an umbrella! The rain will be heavy at times, so you’ll want to stay as dry as possible.
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Stay Updated: Weather can change fast, so make sure you’re checking the forecast throughout the day. Having a weather app handy is always a good idea, especially if you’re planning to be out and about.
Looking Ahead: A Calmer Friday
Once the storm clears Thursday night, Friday will bring calmer conditions to Seattle. The rain will stop, the winds will die down, and the rest of the weekend looks much more pleasant. So hang in there, Seattle! We’re almost through this.
Conclusion: Prepare for a Stormy Thursday
Thursday’s weather is going to be wild, with heavy rain, high winds, and potential flooding making for a very wet, blustery day. While it’s not ideal for being out and about, if you do need to head out, make sure you’re prepared for the storm. Slow down, stay safe, and keep an eye on the forecast as conditions could change quickly.
