Seattle Sees Rare February Snowfall

Residents enjoy the winter wonderland as schools and businesses close for the day.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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A rare February snowstorm hit the Seattle area on Tuesday, causing schools and businesses to close as the city transformed into a winter wonderland. Residents took to social media to share photos and videos of the unexpected snow, which blanketed the region with several inches of accumulation.

Why it matters

Seattle typically sees very little snowfall, with the last significant February snow event occurring over a decade ago. The sudden winter weather disrupted commutes and daily routines, but also provided a rare opportunity for residents to enjoy outdoor activities like sledding and snowball fights.

The details

The snowstorm arrived early Tuesday morning, with the National Weather Service reporting up to 6 inches of accumulation in some areas of the Seattle metro region. Authorities warned drivers to stay off the roads if possible, as icy conditions led to numerous accidents and traffic jams. Many schools and businesses made the decision to close for the day, allowing both children and adults to spend time outdoors playing in the snow.

  • The snowstorm began early Tuesday morning, February 17, 2026.
  • The National Weather Service reported up to 6 inches of snow accumulation in parts of the Seattle area.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings and advisories.

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What they’re saying

“I can't believe we're getting snow in February! This is so exciting, the kids are having a blast.”

— Sarah Thompson, Seattle resident (Twitter)

“Snowball fight in the park! Who would have thought this would happen in Seattle?”

— Alex Nguyen, Local business owner (Instagram)

What’s next

The snow is expected to taper off by Wednesday morning, with temperatures rising above freezing. Authorities warn that icy conditions may persist, and caution is advised for those venturing out.

The takeaway

This unexpected February snowstorm serves as a reminder that even in typically mild climates, Mother Nature can still deliver a surprise winter wonderland. The joy and wonder experienced by Seattle residents during this rare event underscores the importance of embracing unexpected moments of delight in our lives.