For the third weekend in a row, Seattle is treating residents to clear skies and warmth that has finally climbed to 27 degrees Celsius. After an overcast Friday, Saturday will bring back the sun with temperatures around 22 degrees, and on Sunday the air will warm to 27 degrees in the city and up to 30 degrees to the east. Locals have already filled parks, beaches and café patios, enjoying the region’s rare summer-like heat.
Meteorologist Maddie Christell notes that Friday will be a brief respite with cloudiness and a slight cool-down, but by the weekend the systems will retreat. Sunday will set the year's high, delivering clear weather without a single cloud. However, forecasters remind people that despite the heat, water in lakes and rivers has not warmed yet, so swimming should be approached with caution.
These warm spells come against the backdrop of a fourth consecutive severe drought in Washington state, which evokes mixed feelings. Still, Seattleites are optimistic: they tote picnic baskets, stake out spots on beaches and soak up the sun like sea lions on a pier. The main things to remember are sunscreen and the cold water.
Based on: Seattle weather: First 80-degree day of year, clear skies this weekend