SEATTLE — Seattle's first 80-degree day is expected to arrive this weekend as the region moves from unseasonably cold temperatures to unseasonably warm ones.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the high temperatures the Seattle area is expected to see next week are more typical of July and August and about 10 to 15 degrees above average for this time of year. However, it's not too far out of the ordinary. Seattle usually sees its first 80-degree day in May, with the average first 80-degree day landing on May 20.
Moving on from a high temperature of 51 degrees on Sunday, temperatures are expected to rise into the 60s by Wednesday, the 70s by Thursday and into the low 80s on Saturday. Temps are expected to drop slightly on Sunday for a comfortable high of 76 on Mother's Day.
The warmer temperatures are welcome by many after a long stretch of cold and rainy weather in the Seattle area.
The NWS advised caution for those hitting the water amid warmer temperatures this weekend, as area waters are still dangerously cold.
According to the NWS, warm temperatures can create a false sense of security for boaters and beachgoers. Cold water can lead to loss of muscle control within 10 minutes and hypothermia within 20 to 30 minutes. "Cold shock" can lead to a higher risk of drowning due to the potential for a sudden gasp and rapid breathing.
People who are headed out onto the water for Mother's Day weekend should use flotation devices to mitigate the risk of drowning.
