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Thurston County Climate

Thurston County, Washington

NOAA NCEI 1991-2020 Climate Normals
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec50.5°AVG °F

Avg Annual Temp

50.5°F

Annual Precip

50.6"

Annual Snowfall

3.9"

Extreme Heat Days

6

days >= 90°F/yr

Monthly Temperature

54.4°F avgJFMAMJJASOND

Precipitation Calendar

Dry
Wet= snowfall
7.8"
5.1"
5.7"
3.7"
2.3"
1.5"
0.5"
1.0"
2.0"
5.1"
8.2"
7.8"
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Growing Season & Gardening

USDA Hardiness Zone

8b

Minimum winter temperature range for plant survival

Growing Degree Days

1,723

Favors cool-season crops

Last spring frost (32°F): 04/29
First fall frost (32°F): 10/14

Seasonal Overview

Comfort ZoneSpring44°55°11.6"Summer59°64°3.0"Fall43°59°15.3"Winter39°41°20.7"20°40°60°80°100°

National Comparison

Warmer than 32% of US counties
Wetter than 78% of US counties
More seasonal variation than 2% of US counties

7-Day Outlook

Forecast

Current Conditions

Air Quality

Safety

Weather Alerts

Climate Advisory: Thurston County

Climate Verdict

Thurston County has a mild, with an average annual temperature of 50.5°F, moderately wet with 50.6 inches of annual precipitation, rare extreme heat with only 6.4 days above 90°F annually, light snow averaging 3.9 inches per year. This climate profile shapes everything from energy costs to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Seasonal Breakdown

Winters are cold, with January averaging 39.6°F. summers are pleasantly cool with July averaging 64.2°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 July the warmest.

Outdoor & Gardening Guidance

Growing season and gardening data is currently limited for Thurston County. Check the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and local extension office for specific guidance.

Regional Context

Thurston County closely matches the Washington statewide average temperature of 49.9°F, it is also noticeably wetter, receiving 12.1 inches more precipitation than the state average.

Climate Profile

About Thurston County Weather

Thurston’s Mild Marine West Coast Climate

Thurston County averages 50.5°F annually, placing it closer to the national median than its northern neighbors. The climate is typical of the Pacific Northwest, characterized by mild temperatures and high moisture.

Slightly Warmer than the Washington Average

At 50.5°F, the county is slightly warmer than the state average of 49.9°F. This reflects the moderating influence of the Puget Sound on local weather patterns.

Wetter but Milder than Eastern Counties

The county receives 50.6 inches of precipitation annually, more than double the amount seen in Stevens County. Conversely, it sees only 3.9 inches of snow, keeping winters much more manageable.

Consistent Rain and Low Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is rare here, with only 6 days reaching 90°F or higher each year. Summers are mild at 62.5°F, while winters remain relatively warm with a December-February average of 39.7°F.

Gear Up for Consistent Rainfall

High-quality rain gear and home gutter maintenance are essential for managing the 50.6 inches of annual rain. While heavy snow is rare, residents should prepare for damp, overcast winters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average temperature in Thurston County?
The average annual temperature in Thurston County, WA is 50.5°F, based on NOAA 30-year climate normals (1991-2020).
How much rain does Thurston County get?
Thurston County receives an average of 50.6 inches of precipitation per year, including both rain and meltwater from snow. This is based on NOAA 30-year climate normals.
Does it snow in Thurston County?
Yes, Thurston County receives an average of 3.9 inches of snowfall per year according to NOAA climate normals.
How hot does Thurston County get in summer?
The average summer temperature (June-August) in Thurston County is 62.5°F. The county experiences an average of 6 days per year above 90°F.
How cold are winters in Thurston County?
The average winter temperature (December-February) in Thurston County is 39.7°F. January, typically the coldest month, averages 39.6°F.

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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.

By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
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