Autumn in Seattle: A Seasonal Journey Through Time and Weather

Seattle, known for its mild, wet climate, experiences autumn in a myriad of ways. Understanding the variations between early, mid, and late autumn can help visitors and residents appreciate the unique beauty of this season.

Early Autumn: September to Mid-October

Early autumn in Seattle is both pleasant and tranquil. The sky is often clear, with temperatures hovering around the 60s. This period is marked by the transition of deciduous trees, which start to shed their leaves, while conifers stay verdant. The school year has commenced, bringing a slight increase in traffic but fewer tourists. The air carries a refreshing blend of natural scents, and the days are long, providing ample daylight.

Mid-Autumn to Late October

As we move into mid-autumn, around mid-October to early November, the weather begins to shift. Overcast days become more frequent, and temperatures dip into the 50s. The rainy season peaks, with occasional snowfall in the mountains unless it's too early. Despite the drop in sunlight to around 9 hours a day, the city retains a solemn charm. The aerosphere is still filled with vibrant colors, and the occasional crispy leaves beneath one's feet add a touch of rustic beauty.

Late Autumn: November and December

The late autumn months, from November into December, provide an interesting transition into the colder season. Overcast skies are the norm, and temperatures drop into the freezing point, with January and February not far behind. Snow may be seen in the mountains but is rare in Seattle itself. The days grow even shorter, with daylight decreasing to about 9 hours. Though Seattle is somewhat sheltered from winter storms, it can get windy. Puget Sound and nearby waters experience frequent small craft warnings, and coastal regions are more prone to these weather events.

Autumn Memory Lanes

I grew up in Seattle, and my memories of autumn are filled with the smell of damp earth and fallen leaves. On 36th Avenue East, American elms lined the streets, their leaves gathered into bonfires for the kids to cheer about. Despite the lengthening nights and early darkness, summer flowers continued to bloom, seemingly unbothered by the waning light. The days were dimmed by cloud cover, and as Seattle lies at a latitude north of New York and at the edge of its time zone, the sun sets sooner than in many other cities. The enchanting sight of a rose in bloom during December truly tugs at one's heartstrings.

Variable Seasonal Weather

While autumn in Seattle brings a predictable pattern of change, it can vary from year to year. Some years, an Indian summer lingers, while others see a rapid transition to winter. The autumn this year started early, with September seeing significant rainfall, and continued heavy rains and flooding in December. Snow in the Cascade and Olympic mountains also highlights the diverse climate conditions. The weather can be anything from balmy temperatures in the 70s with sunny skies to high winds and heavy rain, with the latter being the current situation as I write.

A Word of Advice

Residing in or visiting Seattle during autumn means being prepared for significant changes. The landscape can transition from warm, sunny days to wind-blown, stormy weather within a matter of hours. The cities overall experience about eight months of overcast, rainy skies, which can be challenging for some. This is why many psychoanalysts tend to have a surge in clients during the late fall and winter months.

Keywords: Seattle autumn, autumn weather, seasonal changes in Seattle