When Does Summer End In Seattle? A Look At The End Of The Season In The Emerald City

Known for its lush greenery, coffee culture, and damp climate, Seattle enjoys mild summer weather perfect for enjoying the outdoors. But when exactly does summer transition to fall in this Pacific Northwest city? Seattleites mark their calendars to soak up every sunny day between the summer solstice and autumnal equinox. Read on for a deep dive into the end of summer in Seattle.

If you’re pressed for time, here’s the quick answer: Based on the astronomical calendar, summer in Seattle ends around September 22-23 when the autumnal equinox arrives.

The Autumnal Equinox Marks Summer’s End

As the vibrant summer days start to wind down in Seattle, many wonder when exactly summer comes to an end in the Emerald City. The answer lies in the autumnal equinox, a celestial event that marks the transition from the warm days of summer to the crisp and colorful days of fall.

In 2022, the autumnal equinox occurs on September 22

In the year 2022, Seattle residents can expect summer to officially end on September 22. This date may vary slightly from year to year, but the autumnal equinox typically falls around September 21 or 22.

It is a moment when the sun crosses the celestial equator, resulting in equal day and night lengths.

Equinox signals equal day and night lengths in Seattle

During the autumnal equinox, Seattle experiences a unique phenomenon where the duration of daylight and darkness is nearly equal. This balance between day and night symbolizes the changing seasons and serves as a reminder that summer is drawing to a close.

As the days grow shorter and the nights become longer, Seattleites can expect the arrival of fall with its vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures.

Marks the transition from summer to fall

The autumnal equinox not only signals the end of summer but also marks the official start of the fall season. As the sun’s angle changes and the Earth tilts away from the sun, temperatures gradually drop, and nature undergoes a beautiful transformation.

Trees shed their leaves, creating a picturesque landscape of reds, oranges, and yellows. It’s a time when pumpkin spice lattes make their return, cozy sweaters are pulled out of closets, and the anticipation of holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving begins to build.

For more information about the autumnal equinox and its significance, you can visit the Time and Date website.

So, as summer in Seattle comes to a close, embrace the beauty of the autumnal equinox and all that the fall season has to offer. It’s a time of transition, reflection, and new beginnings. So grab a warm cup of apple cider, take a leisurely stroll through the colorful parks, and enjoy the magic of autumn in the Emerald City.

Weather Changes in Late Summer

As summer draws to a close in Seattle, the city experiences several noticeable weather changes. These changes include increased rainfall and cloud cover, gradual cooling in daily average temperatures, and earlier sunsets as the days grow shorter.

Increased rainfall and cloud cover in August-September

August and September mark the transition from the warm, dry summer months to the cooler, wetter autumn season in Seattle. During this time, the Emerald City experiences an increase in rainfall and cloud cover.

The average precipitation in August is around 1.5 inches, while September sees an average of 1.7 inches of rainfall. This change in weather is a result of the shifting weather patterns in the region.

The increased rainfall and cloud cover can sometimes lead to overcast days and a decrease in the amount of sunshine. However, it’s important to note that Seattle is known for its microclimates, so while one area may experience more rain, another neighborhood just a few miles away could be relatively dry.

Gradual cooling in daily average temperatures

Another noticeable change in late summer is the gradual cooling of daily average temperatures. While July and August are typically the warmest months in Seattle, September sees a gradual decrease in temperatures as autumn approaches.

The average high temperature in September is around 70°F (21°C), a slight drop from the mid-70s (°F) experienced in July and August.

It’s important to keep in mind that weather can vary from year to year, and there may be occasional heatwaves or cooler spells during this time. However, the overall trend is towards cooler temperatures as the summer season comes to an end.

Earlier sunsets as days grow shorter

One of the most noticeable changes in late summer is the earlier sunsets. As the days grow shorter, the amount of daylight gradually decreases. In August, the sunset time is around 8:30 pm, while by the end of September, it can be as early as 7:00 pm.

This change in daylight hours can have an impact on outdoor activities and daily routines. It’s important for residents and visitors to plan their activities accordingly and make the most of the remaining daylight during the late summer season.

For more information on the weather patterns in Seattle, you can visit the Weather Channel or the Seattle Weather Blog.

Outdoor Activities Wind Down in Fall

As the summer comes to an end in Seattle, outdoor activities gradually wind down, making way for the cooler weather and the changing colors of fall. While Seattle is known for its vibrant outdoor scene, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors before the arrival of winter.

September brings final festivals and events

September marks the final month of summer and brings with it a variety of festivals and events in Seattle. From music festivals to food fairs, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Bumbershoot Festival, for example, is a popular event that showcases music, comedy, and arts, drawing in crowds from all over the region.

It’s a great way to celebrate the end of summer and enjoy the last rays of sunshine before the weather starts to cool down.

Transition to fall sports like football

With the arrival of fall, Seattleites also shift their focus to fall sports like football. The city’s beloved Seahawks take the field, providing locals with a chance to cheer on their team and enjoy the excitement of game day.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking to experience the electric atmosphere, attending a football game is a quintessential fall activity in Seattle.

Last chance for warm-weather recreation

Before the rainy season sets in, Seattleites make the most of the last warm days by engaging in outdoor recreation. Whether it’s hiking in the nearby mountains, kayaking in the Puget Sound, or enjoying a picnic by one of the city’s many parks, there are endless opportunities to soak up the remaining sunshine.

It’s a chance to savor the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and create lasting memories before the arrival of colder temperatures.

Conclusion

While Seattle clings to sunny skies through September, the autumnal equinox brings an undeniable shift in the season. The late summer period allows locals to celebrate the last days of the Emerald City’s temperate climate and take advantage of long daylight hours before fall descends. Mark your calendars for September 22nd to soak up the final days of summer in Seattle!