Excessive Heat — Seattle and Vicinity, Washington

2022-07-26 · Seattle and Vicinity, Washington

Event narrative

An extended period of heat/abnormally warm temperatures affected the Seattle area, with Sea-Tac airport setting a record high temperature of 94 degrees on the afternoon of July 26. This broke the previous record of 92 degrees set in 1971 and 2018.

The National Weather Service Office in Seattle also recorded a record high temperature of 94 degrees on the afternoon of the 26. This also broke the previous record of 92.

Wider weather episode

A strong ridge of high pressure built across the Pacific Northwest at the end of July, making for well-above normal temperatures for most of Western Washington. Afternoon high temperatures in the interior lowlands soared into the 90s, with little relief during the overnight periods with lows in the 60s. This brought about a high probability of heat-related impacts to the area, especially those without an adequate means of cooling and/or hydration. Towards the beginning of August, the return to onshore flow from the Pacific brought about a relief from the heat.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1046692. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.