March Weather in Seattle, United States

Last updated: February 24, 2025

March in Seattle ushers in a transition from winter to spring, characterized by variable temperatures ranging from a minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F). The average temperature settles around 7°C (46°F), providing a brisk yet refreshing atmosphere. This month plays host to a substantial precipitation total of 126 mm (4.9 in), spread over 17 rainy days, contributing to the city's renowned lushness. With humidity levels soaring to 87%, the overall environment is marked by a damp chill, often invigorating the senses and inviting both locals and visitors to embrace the iconic Seattle drizzle.

March Temperature in Seattle

In March, Seattle begins to shake off the winter chill, with temperatures gradually rising and signaling the arrival of spring. The month kicks off with a minimum temperature of -1°C (31°F), but as days lengthen, the average climbs to 7°C (46°F) and the maximum can even soar up to 22°C (72°F). This notable shift illustrates a transition from the lingering cold of February, where temperatures struggled to reach above 14°C (58°F). With the promise of milder weather, March not only brings warmer afternoons but also hints at the vibrant blossoms and renewed energy that spring brings to the Emerald City.

March Weather in Seattle: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates March temperature patterns in Seattle, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec424145505762666762524742
Data source: Temperature data for Seattle generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

March Precipitation in Seattle

In March, Seattle experiences a notable dip in precipitation, with 126 mm (4.9 in) recorded over 17 days. This marks a decrease from the wetter months of January and February, which both exceeded 175 mm and featured more consistent rain. As spring approaches, the shift hints at transitioning weather patterns, paving the way for the drier days ahead in April and May, when precipitation further drops to 117 mm (4.6 in) and 68 mm (2.7 in), respectively. Despite March’s reduced rainfall, the city’s characteristic cloud cover remains, maintaining Seattle’s reputation as a cozy, rain-kissed urban oasis.

March Precipitation Trends in Seattle

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Seattle, with values for each month alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how March's conditions compare to those of other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec17517712611768631916100155181196
Data source: Precipitation data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

March Humidity in Seattle

In Seattle, March ushers in a notable peak in humidity, with levels reaching 87%. This slight increase from the previous months, which both hovered at 86%, signals the transition into spring. As the city emerges from winter, the dampness of March continues to set the tone for the upcoming months, where humidity begins to taper off in April to 84% and further declines into the summer. This pattern of varying humidity reflects Seattle's distinct seasons, where spring and winter maintain higher moisture levels, while the summer months bring a drier atmosphere. Notably, humidity levels remain on the higher side throughout the fall and winter, creating the city's characteristic lush greenery.

March Average Humidity in Seattle

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Seattle, with March's data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, allowing you to see how March's humidity levels compare to other months.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec86%86%87%84%81%82%79%63%62%83%89%88%
Data source: Humidity data for March generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

March UV Index in Seattle

As March unfolds in Seattle, the UV Index experiences a noticeable increase, rising to 5, indicating a moderate level of UV exposure. This marks a significant change from the previous months, where the Index hovered between 2 and 3. With a burn time of 30 minutes, it becomes essential for residents and visitors to be mindful of sun protection during outdoor activities. This trend hints at the seasonal transition towards sunnier days, paving the way for even higher UV readings in the upcoming months. As spring approaches, it's crucial to stay informed and prepare for changing conditions, especially since April is predicted to reach a high UV Index of 6. For more detailed information about UV exposure throughout the year, check out Seattle UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Seattle for March

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Seattle in March, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec235689987521
Data source: Seattle March UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

March Sunshine in Seattle

As winter begins to fade, March emerges as a turning point for sunshine in Seattle, boasting an impressive 199 hours of sunlight—a notable increase from the gray skies of January and February. This upward trend continues into the following months, with April bringing 229 hours and May reaching 299 hours, heralding the arrival of spring and summer. The gradual escalation in daylight showcases Seattle's vibrant transition towards longer, sunnier days, culminating in a peak of 361 hours by July. As the year progresses, while the sunshine starts to wane in the fall, the significant leap in March sunlight captures the essence of Seattle's changing seasons, inviting residents and visitors alike to bask in the brightening landscape.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Seattle: March Highlighted

The March sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Seattle experiences direct sunlight during the month of March, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of March with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec80h123h199h229h299h311h361h330h254h190h114h93h
Data source: Seattle March Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Seattle During March

As winter recedes and spring approaches, March brings a notable shift in Seattle's weather patterns, with the chance of sunny days jumping to 30%—a significant increase from the 16% and 17% experienced in January and February, respectively. This positive trend continues through the spring months, eventually peaking at 50% in April. While the chance of sunshine does fluctuate in the following months, it’s during March that residents can first sense the promise of brighter days ahead, marking a welcome departure from the grey skies of winter. This gradual rise in sunlight serves as a gentle reminder that spring is on the horizon, inviting both locals and visitors to savor the budding scenery.

Percentage of Sunny Days in March in Seattle

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Seattle throughout the year, with March highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Seattle experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec16%17%30%50%38%59%63%49%36%25%15%12%
Data source: Seattle March chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Seattle in March

As March unfolds in Seattle, the city experiences a delightful increase in daylight, offering 11 hours of sunlight compared to just 8 hours in January. This upward trend in brightness hints at the arrival of spring, as the days grow longer and more vibrant. Following the 10 hours in February, March marks a significant leap, laying the groundwork for the longer days ahead. By April, Seattle will bask in 13 hours of daylight, further embracing the warmth and rejuvenation of the season. This gradual transition not only enriches the natural scenery but also lifts the spirits of residents, inviting outdoor activities and the blossoming of life. As daylight steadily extends into late spring and summer, Seattleites can look forward to enjoying an impressive 15 hours as June rolls around, making the most of longer evenings and sunlit adventures.

Average Daylight Hours in Seattle for March

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Seattle throughout the year, with March highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec8h 56m10h 16m11h 57m13h 40m15h 8m15h 52m15h 27m14h 8m12h 29m10h 47m9h 17m8h 30m
Data source: Seattle daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

March Winds in Seattle

In March, Seattle experiences a gentle breeze with an average wind speed of 2.5 m/s (6 mph), slightly lower than the previous month. This dip marks a transition as the city shakes off winter, hinting at the promise of spring. Notably, the wind speeds tend to decline during the warmer months, with April further reducing to 2.4 m/s (5 mph). However, as summer approaches, the winds often calm, reaching their annual low in July at just 1.9 m/s (4 mph). Interestingly, November brings a notable uptick, with wind speeds peaking at 3.5 m/s (8 mph), signaling the return of brisk conditions. Overall, the trend in Seattle's winds reflects a seasonal rhythm, breathing life into the city throughout the year.

Average March Wind Speed in Seattle

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Seattle, with values for each month shown alongside March's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how March's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.83.42.5 m/s2.42.52.41.92.42.52.93.53.4
Data source: Seattle March wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How March Weather in Seattle Compares to Other Months

The weather in Seattle changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of March's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Seattle and find detailed weather information for every month.

In comparing the weather of March and January, we see a notable difference in temperatures and precipitation. March experiences milder temperatures, with averages around 7°C (46°F) and maximums reaching up to 22°C (72°F), while January is generally colder, with an average of 6°C (43°F) and maximums of only 14°C (57°F). Additionally, January has significantly higher precipitation, totaling 175 mm (6.9 in) over 16 days compared to March's 126 mm (4.9 in) across 17 days. Despite January being wetter, both months maintain high humidity levels, at 86% in January and 87% in March. For more information on Seattle's weather during January, you can visit Seattle weather in January.

In comparing the weather of February and March, it’s evident that March experiences a warmer range of temperatures, with an average of 7°C (46°F) compared to February's 5°C (41°F). The minimum temperature in March also rises to -1°C (31°F), while February drops to a colder -10°C (14°F). However, February sees higher total precipitation at 177 mm (7.0 in) over 19 days, compared to March's 126 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days, indicating that while February is colder, it is also wetter. Humidity levels are similar, with February at 86% and March at 87%. For more detailed insights, you can visit Seattle weather in February.

In March, the weather tends to be colder, with minimum temperatures dipping to -1°C (31°F) and an average of 7°C (46°F), while April sees a slight increase, with minimums at 1°C (34°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F). The maximum temperatures also rise, reaching 22°C (72°F) in March compared to 24°C (75°F) in April. Although March experiences slightly more precipitation at 126 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days, April follows closely with 117 mm (4.6 in) over 14 days. Additionally, humidity levels are marginally lower in April at 84%, compared to 87% in March. For more detailed information on April weather, you can visit Seattle weather in April.

March weather tends to be quite variable, with temperatures ranging from a chilly -1°C (31°F) to a more pleasant max of 22°C (72°F), but averaging only 7°C (46°F). This month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 126 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, May brings a welcome increase in temperatures, with a minimum of 5°C (42°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F), reaching highs of up to 28°C (82°F). Additionally, May sees less precipitation, with totals around 68 mm (2.7 in) over 12 days, leading to a slightly lower humidity of 81%. For a more detailed look at what to expect, check out Seattle weather in May.

March weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, fluctuating from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a pleasant maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F). This month also experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 126 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days, coupled with high humidity at 87%. In contrast, June brings a significant warm-up, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a scorching maximum of 38°C (101°F), and an average temperature of 17°C (62°F). Additionally, June sees much less precipitation, with only 63 mm (2.5 in) over 9 days and slightly lower humidity at 82%. For more details on the warmth of June, you can check Seattle weather in June.

March and July present contrasting weather patterns, highlighting the transition from winter to summer. In March, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable 22°C (72°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F). This month experiences significant rainfall, with 126 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In contrast, July boasts much warmer temperatures, with minimums of 11°C (52°F) and maximums reaching 32°C (91°F), averaging around 19°C (67°F). Precipitation is minimal in July, totaling just 18 mm (0.7 in) across 5 days, and humidity decreases to 79%. For more details on what to expect in July, check out Seattle weather in July.

March and August present a stark contrast in weather patterns. In March, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) to a comfortable max of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F). This month sees considerable precipitation, with 126 mm (4.9 in) falling over 17 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 87%. In comparison, August experiences much milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a low of 10°C (51°F) to a warm high of 33°C (93°F) and an average of 19°C (67°F). Rainfall is minimal, only 16 mm (0.6 in) over just 5 days, resulting in a lower humidity of 63%. For more information on the weather specifics of August in Seattle, you can visit Seattle weather in August.

March and September present distinctly different weather patterns. In March, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -1°C (31°F) to a maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F). The month is characterized by high humidity at 87% and substantial precipitation, averaging 126 mm (4.9 in) over 17 rainy days. In contrast, September offers a milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 8°C (46°F) and maximums reaching 30°C (86°F), averaging 16°C (62°F). The humidity drops significantly to 62%, and precipitation decreases to 100 mm (3.9 in) over 12 days. For more detailed climate insights, you can check Seattle weather in September.

March and October exhibit distinct weather patterns, though both months experience a similar minimum temperature of around -1°C (31°F). March tends to be cooler overall, with an average temperature of 7°C (46°F) and a maximum of 22°C (72°F), compared to October's higher average of 11°C (52°F) and a maximum of 23°C (74°F).

Precipitation levels are notable in both months, with March receiving 126 mm (4.9 in) over 17 days, while October sees a slightly higher 155 mm (6.1 in) spread over 15 days. Additionally, humidity is higher in March at 87%, compared to 83% in October.

For more details about what to expect during this fall month, check out Seattle weather in October.

March and November offer contrasting yet comparable weather patterns in terms of temperature and precipitation. In March, temperatures range from a chilly -1°C (31°F) to a pleasantly warm maximum of 22°C (72°F), with an average of 7°C (46°F). The month experiences significant rainfall, totaling 126 mm (4.9 in) over about 17 days, coupled with a humidity level of 87%. Conversely, November sees slightly cooler temperatures with a minimum of -1°C (30°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F), averaging 8°C (47°F). It also brings more precipitation, accumulating 181 mm (7.1 in) over 18 days, and a higher humidity of 89%. For more detailed insights, you can check out Seattle weather in November.

March and December in Seattle exhibit notable differences in their weather patterns. March experiences a wider temperature range, with a minimum of -1°C (31°F) and a maximum reaching 22°C (72°F), while December sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -7°C (20°F) and a maximum of 14°C (58°F). Additionally, March tends to be slightly less wet than December, receiving 126 mm (4.9 inches) of precipitation over 17 days compared to December’s 196 mm (7.7 inches) over 19 days. Both months maintain high humidity levels, though March's average humidity of 87% is just slightly lower than December's 88%. For more information, you can check out Seattle weather in December.

Compare Seattle's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From March Weather in Seattle

As winter gives way to spring, March in Seattle showcases a notable transition in weather patterns. With an average temperature hovering at a brisk 7°C (46°F) and the possibility of reaching up to 22°C (72°F), residents experience a blend of chilly moments and the first hints of warmth. However, this month also sees a significant amount of precipitation, with nearly half the month marked by rainy days, contributing to the city's well-known humidity levels of 87%. Compared to the drier summer months, March is a reminder of Seattle's lush and vibrant character brought forth by the frequent showers. For more insights into the ever-evolving Seattle climate, check out Seattle Climate.