If you’re planning a Memorial Day getaway in Washington, you’ll probably need to prepare for a mix of sun, clouds, and a few showers. Daytime temperatures usually hit the mid to upper 60s, though some years surprise you with much warmer days, while others stay cool and damp. That mild, changeable weather—plus a decent chance of rain—just comes with late spring in the Pacific Northwest.
Coastal areas and western Washington generally stay cooler and cloudier. Eastern Washington, on the other hand, tends to warm up quicker and skies dry out faster. The holiday weekend feels totally different depending on where you are, whether you’re picnicking in Seattle, hiking the Cascades, or heading east over the mountains.
It helps to know what’s typical, so you can plan without getting caught off guard. Memorial Day weekend often kicks off outdoor events, camping, and travel across the state. Understanding the usual weather patterns gives you a better shot at picking the right gear and activities.
Typical Memorial Day Weather in Washington
Late May in Washington usually brings a mix of mild temperatures, scattered rain, and the occasional patch of sunshine. Mornings often start cool, highs reach the 60s or 70s, and light showers pop up—especially west of the Cascades.
Conditions change a lot by region. Western Washington stays more unsettled, while the east side is drier.
Historical Weather Patterns
If you check out past Memorial Day weekends, you’ll see western Washington gets all kinds of skies. Sometimes it rains steadily, sometimes the sun sticks around for days. The Pacific Ocean shapes this, keeping things mild but also sending in passing weather systems.
Eastern Washington deals with something else entirely. The Cascade Range blocks a lot of moisture, so it’s drier and afternoons get warmer. Cities like Spokane or Yakima often see more sun than Seattle or Olympia.
The holiday falls right as spring shifts into early summer, so weather can swing pretty fast. You might start the weekend with drizzle and end it with clear, warm skies.
Average High Temperatures
In western Washington, average highs during the last weekend of May usually land in the mid to upper 60s °F. Some years, highs climb into the lower 70s, especially if high pressure parks over the region. Nights stay cool, often in the upper 40s to low 50s.
Eastern Washington runs warmer. Expect average highs in the mid 70s, and sometimes spots reach the 80s. The dry air makes the warmth feel even stronger compared to the damp west.
Here’s a quick look at average highs:
| Region | Average High (°F) |
|---|---|
| Western Washington | 65–70 |
| Eastern Washington | 72–80 |
These numbers give you a good idea, but weather can always surprise you with a sudden cold snap or heat wave.
Precipitation Trends
Rain plays a big role in Memorial Day plans. In western Washington, light rain or brief showers show up pretty often. May brings about 2 inches of rain to Seattle, and some of it usually falls during the holiday weekend. Showers tend to be scattered, so you might get some sun between the clouds.
Eastern Washington is much drier. Spokane, for example, averages less than 1 inch of rain in May. If you head east of the Cascades, you’re more likely to get dry weather for outdoor plans.
Late May can still bring occasional thunderstorms east of the mountains. They’re not super common, but they do pop up in the afternoons when warm air rises fast. That keeps things interesting even in the drier parts.
Memorial Day Weekend Weather Forecast
You’ll usually get a mix of cool, cloudy days with a gradual warm-up by the holiday itself. Light showers often roll through early in the weekend, but drier, sunnier weather tends to show up by Monday. That makes outdoor plans a bit easier.
Weather Outlook for Seattle
Seattle’s Memorial Day weekend often starts out with gray skies and scattered showers. Friday and Saturday bring plenty of clouds, and you might notice cooler air compared to late spring averages.
By Sunday, things usually start to look up. Skies may still be partly cloudy, but rain chances drop. Memorial Day itself is often the best day, with more sun and warmer temps than earlier in the weekend.
Meteorologists at FOX 13 Seattle often point out this pattern: damp starts, clearer finishes. If you’re planning to be outside, Monday’s your best bet for comfortable weather. Barbecues, parades, or city day trips all benefit from that timing.
Regional Forecasts for Western Washington
Western Washington mostly follows Seattle’s trend, though it varies by spot. Coastal areas stay cooler and cloudier, while places farther inland, like the south Sound, warm up a bit quicker.
The Cascades and foothills tend to hang onto showers longer, especially in the afternoons. If you’re planning to hike or camp, expect damp ground and chilly nights. By Memorial Day, higher pressure usually brings clearer skies to most of the region.
Local forecasts often call the weekend “split.” The first half feels like spring, with scattered rain, while the second half starts to look more like early summer.
Expected Temperature Ranges
Temperatures at the start of the weekend usually run below average. Friday and Saturday highs often stay in the upper 50s to low 60s, which can feel pretty chilly if you’re hoping for summer warmth. Nights drop into the mid to upper 40s with all the cloud cover.
By Memorial Day, things warm up. Seattle often hits the upper 60s, and inland valleys can get close to 70. Monday usually ends up as the warmest day.
Here’s a quick breakdown of typical ranges:
| Day | Highs (°F) | Lows (°F) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday–Saturday | 58–62 | 45–48 | Cloudy, scattered rain |
| Sunday | 60–65 | 46–49 | Partly cloudy, drier |
| Memorial Day | 66–70 | 47–50 | Sunnier, warmer |
Layers are your friend—mornings and evenings stay cool, even when afternoons warm up.
Common Weather Conditions and Variability
Late May in Washington usually brings light showers, sunny breaks, and plenty of partly cloudy skies. The weather can flip fast, especially when you move between western and eastern Washington.
Showers and Rainfall Probability
You should expect at least a chance of showers during Memorial Day weekend, especially west of the Cascades. Seattle and nearby towns get light rain or drizzle in late May, though it’s not as frequent as early spring.
Rainfall totals stay modest. Western Washington averages 1.5 to 2 inches of rain in May, while the east side usually gets less than 1 inch. Showers tend to be quick and scattered, not all-day storms.
If you travel east toward Spokane or the Tri-Cities, you’ll usually find drier conditions. The Cascades act like a wall, keeping most of the moisture on the west side. So you might leave a wet Seattle behind and find blue skies a few hours later.
Sunshine and Clear Skies
Most Memorial Day weekends in Washington offer at least one sunny day. When high pressure builds in late May, it often brings dry, clear weather and a quick jump in temperatures.
In western Washington, sunny afternoons can push highs into the upper 60s or low 70s. East of the Cascades, sun is more common and temps can climb into the mid to upper 70s.
Clear skies make outdoor plans easier, but things can still change quickly. A sunny morning might turn cloudy or bring a stray shower later. Always check the daily forecast before heading out.
Partly Cloudy Days
Partly cloudy days are super common this time of year. You might wake up to low clouds or marine layer near Puget Sound, then see sun breaks later.
This pattern keeps temps mild—mid 60s near the coast, 70s inland. It’s rarely hot, but the mix of sun and clouds is pretty comfortable for being outside.
In eastern Washington, “partly cloudy” usually means more sun than clouds. The dry climate east of the Cascades gives you longer stretches of brightness, even if clouds drift by.
Temperature Trends and Extremes
Late May in Washington usually brings mild afternoons and cool mornings, but the range of possible weather is pretty wide. Most places get highs in the 60s or 70s, but history shows that temperatures can swing way above or below those averages.
Cool Starts and Warm Finishes
Morning temperatures in late May often start cool, especially in eastern Washington. Spokane can dip into the mid-40s at sunrise, while Seattle hangs closer to the low 50s. Longer nights and less direct sun keep things chilly early on.
Afternoons usually warm up. Highs often reach the mid to upper 60s in the west and the low to mid-70s in the east. Sometimes, the difference between morning lows and afternoon highs is more than 20°F, so layering up is a smart move if you’ll be outside.
The Pacific Ocean keeps the coast steady, so Seattle’s highs don’t get too wild. Inland valleys and plateaus, though, warm up fast and can feel a lot hotter by late day. If you want sun and warmth, eastern Washington is usually a safer bet for Memorial Day.
Unusually Warm Memorial Days
Most years, highs stick to the 60s and 70s, but sometimes Memorial Day brings a real heat spike. Eastern Washington has seen high temperatures reach the 80s or even low 90s in late May. It’s not what you’d call normal, but it happens and shows how quickly early-season heat can show up.
Western Washington, even with the marine air, has had some hot Memorial Days too. Seattle has hit the upper 70s or low 80s during a few holiday weekends, especially when high pressure blocks Pacific moisture.
Warm spells can change outdoor plans fast. Hiking trails start to feel summerlike, and city events get a totally different vibe compared to the usual spring weather. If you’re heading east of the Cascades, pack for stronger sun and dry air—it makes the heat feel even more intense than on the coast.
Weather Impacts on Memorial Day Activities
Weather around Memorial Day in Washington often shapes how you plan outdoor gatherings and travel. Rain, mild temperatures, and the occasional storm can affect events, road conditions, and just your general comfort.
Outdoor Events and Ceremonies
Many Memorial Day traditions in Washington, like parades and ceremonies, happen outside. In Seattle, late May usually means mild highs in the 60s or low 70s, but light rain is pretty common. You’ll want to be ready for damp grass, slick sidewalks, and chilly breezes by the water.
A light rain jacket or umbrella can really help. Layered clothes work well, since mornings might be chilly but afternoons warm up fast if the sun comes out.
If you’re visiting cemeteries or attending services, wet ground is something to think about. Waterproof shoes keep you comfortable. Parks and open spaces fill up quick, so arriving early helps with parking.
Even if skies look clear, keep in mind that Memorial Day weekend in Seattle has a knack for sudden showers. Setting up tents or canopies gives you extra protection and keeps food and seating dry.
Travel and Transportation Considerations
Memorial Day weekend packs the highways around Washington with travelers. If you’re heading into Seattle on I‑5 or I‑90, you’ll probably hit heavy congestion.
Rain can slow things down even more, especially if you’re coming back on Monday afternoon.
If you’re driving, give yourself extra time and check road conditions before you go. Wet pavement means your car needs more distance to stop, and mountain passes sometimes surprise you with leftover snow or sudden fog.
If you’re crossing higher elevations, keep chains or traction devices in your trunk just in case.
Airports get busier too. Seattle‑Tacoma International Airport often has long security lines, and weather delays can mess with connecting flights.
Arrive early and keep an eye on your airline’s alerts, so you’re not caught off guard.
For local trips, public transit might save you some headaches. Light rail and buses run on holiday schedules, but they can help you avoid the parking circus near events and along the waterfront.
Weather Resources and Local Forecasts
You’ll plan better for Memorial Day weekend in Washington if you know where to find reliable forecasts. Local stations and regional meteorologists usually offer the most accurate updates for sudden weather changes.
Reliable Local Weather Sources
If you want precise updates, start with local television stations and regional meteorologists. They really keep an eye on Pacific Northwest weather, which matters since conditions jump around between the coast, Puget Sound, and the Cascades.
You should also check National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts. NWS offices in Seattle and Spokane share daily updates, watches, and advisories. They use radar, satellites, and local observation sites to gather their data.
Many travelers just pull up The Weather Channel or Weather.com for a quick check. These sites offer 10‑day outlooks, temperature swings, and precipitation chances. They’re handy, but sometimes they miss the small details of Washington’s microclimates.
It’s smart to compare at least two sources before you make plans. For example:
| Source | Best Use Case |
|---|---|
| FOX 13 Seattle | Local detail for western Washington |
| National Weather Service | Official alerts and warnings |
| Weather Channel | Broader 10‑day forecasts |
Mixing a few sources gives you both the big picture and the local scoop.
Using FOX 13 Seattle for Updates
FOX 13 Seattle gives forecasts that actually fit western Washington, especially around Seattle. Their meteorologists watch for quick changes, like when rain showers finally let up or if a ridge of high pressure brings a rare stretch of dry days.
You’ll find daily breakdowns that show how Thursday, Friday, and the holiday weekend stack up against each other. For Memorial Day, they usually point out when the weather shifts from cool and cloudy to surprisingly warm and sunny.
If you’re thinking about a barbecue, heading to the park, or maybe catching a ferry, FOX 13’s coverage really comes in handy. They track when temperatures jump into the 60s and 70s, and they’re quick to mention any slight shower chances that could mess with your plans.
You can catch all this on TV, the station’s website, or their mobile app. They offer radar maps, quick forecast videos, and written updates. It’s easy to tweak your plans last minute if the weather turns.
Mixing FOX 13 Seattle with national sources just gives you a better feel for both local quirks and the big-picture trends. That way, you’re not left guessing.