Wet & Windy Tuesday Ahead—Prepare for Heavy Rain and Gusty Winds

If you’re planning to step outside today, grab your rain gear and brace yourself: we’re looking at a significant Pacific storm system moving through western Washington with heavy rain, gusty winds, and cool temperatures.

Today’s Weather: Rain & Wind

Rain is already here and will stick around all day with a 98–100% chance of precipitation. High temperatures will only reach 48°F, so it’ll feel chilly and damp. The real story is the wind: expect gusts up to 29 mph throughout the day, peaking this evening. The National Weather Service forecasters note that 20–30 mph gusts will be common across most lowland areas, so loose items in your yard should be secured now.

Rainfall amounts between a half and three-quarters of an inch are expected today, with additional rain tonight and into Wednesday. This isn’t a day for outdoor activities—cancel that golf round, postpone yard work, and definitely don’t plan a grilling session.

What to Wear & Bring

If you must be outside, layer up. A packable rain jacket is your best friend today—it’ll keep you dry without adding bulk, and you can stuff it in a bag if you duck indoors. Waterproof hiking boots are worth considering if you’re doing any walking around the neighborhood, especially with all the moisture we’re getting. And don’t forget a compact travel umbrella; the wind will test it, but having one beats getting soaked.

Tonight & Wednesday

Rain continues tonight with lows around 39°F and winds still gusting to 28 mph. Wednesday brings a twist: we’ll see showers and even thunderstorms develop between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., especially near the coast. The air mass is slightly unstable, so a few rumbles of thunder aren’t out of the question. Highs will be similar—around 49°F with falling temperatures in the afternoon.

One silver lining: winds will ease Wednesday, and the rain should taper off Wednesday night. That’s when conditions finally start improving.

Thursday Outlook

Drier weather arrives Thursday with high pressure moving in offshore. Expect morning frost and freezing temperatures across the South Sound—a classic spring pattern. Highs will climb into the 50s with some sun breaks. Much nicer!

Meal Idea

With this gloomy, wet stretch ahead, today’s the perfect day to fire up a programmable slow cooker before you head out. Set it this morning with your favorite chili, beef stew, or hearty soup, and come home to a warm, comforting meal. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you won’t have to cook when you’re tired and damp.

The Bottom Line

Stay indoors if you can today. If you’re heading out, dress for rain and wind. The worst of it peaks this evening, but expect steady moisture through Wednesday. By Thursday, we’ll have a break—so plan your outdoor activities then.