King County Climate
King County, Washington
NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate NormalsAvg Annual Temp
51.3°F
Annual Precip
64.2"
Annual Snowfall
24.7"
Extreme Heat Days
3
days >= 90°F/yr
Monthly Temperature
Precipitation Calendar
Growing Season & Gardening
9a
Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival
1,925
Favors cool-season crops
Seasonal Overview
National Comparison
7-Day Outlook
Forecast
Current Conditions
Air Quality
Safety
Weather Alerts
Climate Advisory: King County
Climate Verdict
King County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 51.3°F, very wet conditions receiving 64.2 inches of precipitation annually, rare extreme heat with only 3.4499999999999997 days above 90°F annually, moderate snowfall of 24.7 inches annually. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.
Seasonal Breakdown
Winters are mild, with January temperatures averaging 40.1°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 65.0°F. The climate is remarkably stable year-round, with only a 25°F difference between January and July. December is typically the coldest month and August the warmest.
Outdoor & Gardening Guidance
Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for King County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.
Regional Context
King County closely matches the Washington statewide average temperature of 49.9°F, it is also noticeably wetter, receiving 25.7 inches more precipitation than the state average.
Climate Profile
About King County Weather
A Mild Marine Climate
King County maintains an average annual temperature of 51.3°F, falling slightly below the national median. The region's temperate marine climate avoids the harsh temperature extremes found in much of the central United States.
Warmer Than the State Average
At 51.3°F, the county is warmer than the Washington state average of 49.9°F. Its 64.2 inches of annual precipitation also far exceeds the statewide average of 38.5 inches.
Drier Than Its Western Neighbors
King County receives 64.2 inches of rain, which is significantly less than the 83.3 inches seen in neighboring Mason County. However, it remains wetter than Kitsap County across the sound, which averages 56.9 inches.
Cool Summers and Damp Winters
The county experiences only 3 extreme heat days per year, with July temperatures averaging a mild 65.0°F. Winter brings 24.7 inches of snowfall and average lows near 40.1°F in January.
Prepare for Persistent Rain
High-quality waterproof gear is essential to handle the 64.2 inches of annual rainfall. While air conditioning is less critical given the few extreme heat days, residents should prepare for occasional winter snow accumulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Data sources: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020. Forecast and alert data from National Weather Service API. Air quality data from Open-Meteo.
Climate normals are 30-year averages of weather variables. Station data is aggregated to county level. Forecasts and alerts are fetched live and may change frequently. Data is informational only — not a substitute for official National Weather Service forecasts or emergency weather warnings.