Seattle is well known for the its rain and gloomy days.  However, Seattle ranks 44th among United States cities for rainfall with an average yearly rainfall of 36.2 inches (92 cm). but still less than New York and Miami.  Compare this to the 145 inches (368 cm) in the beautiful Hoh Rain Forest (on the west, or ocean, side of Olympic National Park in Washington State).

Instead of downpours Seattle get a lot of drizzle, but it rarely snows.   Because of our diverse geography, we have microclimates, so it can be cloudy/rainy some places, clear in others.  Mid winter can be beautiful when the temperatures drop and Seattle gets those wonderful crystal clear days with brilliant blue skies and trees and grass so green, you'll definitely need your sunglasses.  Spring and  summer are nice, less gloomy days and nicer temperatures.  It's still very spring-like until around July 5th.  From July through September the weather is perfect, temperatures range from 75 to 98.  This will be a great time to explore Seattle's waterfront, Cascade and Olympic mountains,San Juan Islands, take a ferry toVictoria B.C. or just relax at aSeattle Marinersgame or rollerblade at Greenlake.

 Outside of the peak summer months, Seattle can also be very pleasant to visit during the Spring. There are many cherry trees in Seattle that are beautiful to see. In particular, the University of Washington Quad has a selection of phenomenal yoshino cherry trees. While Seattle will never challenge Japan for beauty during the cherry blossom season, Japanese tourists commonly are seen on the quad enjoying their time and having small family hanami (flower viewing) picnics. Weather during this time can be very hit or miss, but regardless of the season, there is always something to do in the Seattle area!  It's a wonderful city even when drizzley.  Seattleites do not typically use umbrellas; parkas are the standard outerwear, ready for rain or shine in this very geographically diverse region.