Record-breaking temps could crack 90 degrees in parts of Western Washington
Published 1:30 am Wednesday, June 10, 2026
A big change to much warmer and drier weather is in store by this weekend and into early next week in Western Washington. This change will feel quite significant since we have not had any such warm weather since Sept. 16 last year, when the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) reached 91 degrees.
Higher pressure aloft is forecast to begin building over the Pacific Northwest, with the clouds clearing and temperatures rising.
By this weekend, high temperatures are expected to climb well into the 80s with some of the usual warm locations in Western Washington cracking the 90-degree mark – the warmest so far this year.
The first World Cup game in Seattle is set for Monday, when the weather conditions will be hot.
For cooler conditions, Puget Sound and coastal shorelines will offer relief with readings generally in the 70s.
High temperature records will be at risk.
Steps to take during hot weather
If unable to travel to cooler locations, here are some steps to take to be cooler and avoid any heat-related health concerns.
Seek air-conditioned facilities such as shopping malls and theaters. In the 1990s, only about 15% of homes had air conditioning. Today, that percentage has risen above 40%.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcoholic beverages.
During the heat of the day, avoid strenuous activities like running or jogging, and if working outdoors, take breaks and again drink plenty of water.
Avoid leaving children and pets in cars, even if for just a few minutes. Temperatures inside a vehicle can soar to well above 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes, even with the windows open. Remember – Beat the Heat, Check the Back Seat!
The most vulnerable to prolonged heat are the elderly, the very young, and those with heart-related medical conditions. Check on these family members, friends, or neighbors to help ensure they are doing OK.
Wear light, loose-fitting clothing to help reflect the heat.
Area waterways also offer cooling relief. Just remember to wear a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Area waterways are still cold, only in the 50s to the lower 60s. Accidentally falling into the water results in cold water shock, like stepping into a cold shower, which is the leading cause of drownings across the state.
Because we have not had such hot weather since late last summer, the big warm-up is going to have rather dramatic health impacts from the sudden rise in temperatures. The majority of heat health issues, such as heat exhaustion or even heat stroke, occur early in the warm season.
Be sure to monitor the latest weather forecast and information about this hot weather.
Conditions are dry
The rain deficit across the state continues. Over 60% of Western Washington is considered abnormally dry, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Much of the state east of the Cascades is now in moderate or severe drought. The upcoming combination of hot weather and dry conditions means the region is at greater risk for wildfires.
