Seattle Braces for Frosty Temperatures and Snow Showers

Frigid Canadian winds bring chilly days and potential for winter weather.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Seattle area is set to experience some of the coldest days of the winter season as frosty Canadian winds move into Western Washington. Temperatures are expected to drop significantly, with wind chills reaching as low as 15-20 degrees. A cold weather advisory has been issued for parts of the region, and there is a chance of snow showers throughout the week.

Why it matters

The arrival of this cold front is notable for the Seattle area, which has seen relatively mild winters in recent years. The plummeting temperatures and potential for snow could impact daily life, transportation, and power usage across the region.

The details

Meteorologists say the northeasterly winds will bring the cold temperatures and wind chills to the area. A cold weather advisory is in effect for the Whatcom County lowlands and San Juan County, where lows could reach 10-15 degrees. In Seattle and surrounding areas, highs are only expected to reach the low 40s, with overnight lows in the 20s and 30s. There is a chance of snow showers on both Thursday and Friday.

  • The cold weather advisory went into effect on Wednesday evening and will last until Thursday at noon.
  • Thursday's high is forecast to reach 41 degrees, with a low of 28 degrees in the evening.
  • Friday will see a high of 44 degrees and a low of 34 degrees in the evening, with a slight chance of snow.

The players

Maddie Kristell

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Seattle.

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What they’re saying

“Frosty Canadian winds are moving toward Western Washington, bringing freezing temperatures and talk of snow along for the ride, in what may be some of the coldest days of winter.”

— Maddie Kristell, Meteorologist (Bellingham Herald)

The takeaway

This cold front serves as a reminder that even Seattle can experience harsh winter weather, underscoring the need for residents to prepare for potential impacts on daily life and take precautions against the frigid temperatures.