Seattle’s Unusually Warm Winter (2025-2026)
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
This winter in the Seattle area felt unusually warm. February had several sunny days instead of the typical gray, cold, rainy days. I was wondering if it was just my imagination or if this winter is actually different. After doing some research, I realized my instincts were right. This winter has been exceptionally warm and dry, with December 2025 being one of the warmest on record in Washington.
According to data by the Washington State Climate Office, December 2025 was the warmest December since at least 1985. Western Washington had monthly temperatures that were 3-5 degrees Fahrenheit above normal. For example, SeaTac’s monthly temperature was 3.2 F above normal, which was the third warmest on record. News reports also showed that 2025 was among the top three warmest years globally, continuing record-breaking heat in 2023 and 2024. Washington’s warm winter was a part of this trend.
There have also been extreme weather events this winter. Some regions in Washington experienced flooding in December, recording almost 200% above normal precipitation. Then in January 2026, SeaTac had 14 consecutive days of no precipitation, just one day short of the longest dry streak in January in 1963. This winter overall had precipitation that is below average, resulting in a snow drought.
At first, a warmer winter might feel pleasant. However, this warming trend signals aggravating climate change. An increase in greenhouse gas emissions is increasing average temperatures, making record-breaking heat more common. Seattle usually has cool, wet winters, but if this warming trend continues, future winters may continue to change. Taking steps to reduce climate change, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, will help protect our environment.
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