Cloudy start, brighter afternoon for Seattle; hotter inland with fire concerns
Published July 11, 2026 — A southwest flow is pushing a marine layer into the Seattle area early Saturday, producing cloudy skies through the morning before partial clearing by midday. The sea breeze and low clouds will be slow to clear along the coast, while interior locations should see more sun in the afternoon.
A weak cold front moving through the region brings only a slight chance of a shower or two, mainly along the coast and in the mountains. Those showers are not expected to affect the bulk of the Puget Sound region.
- Seattle area highs: mid to low 70s Saturday (a few degrees below seasonal average)
- Coastal highs: low 60s with mostly cloudy skies
- Eastern and central Washington: low 90s, with increased fire concerns
High Fire Danger in Central Washington
Forecasters have issued a Red Flag Warning that goes into effect Saturday for parts of eastern and central Washington, citing hot, dry and gusty conditions. The warning means elevated potential for wildfire starts and rapid fire growth; the threat is expected to remain elevated into early next week as temperatures stay high.
Looking ahead, an area of high pressure is forecast to push inland Sunday and the upper-level trough will move out. That pattern should bring more sunshine and a warming trend beginning Monday and continuing into Tuesday and Wednesday, when highs are expected to return to the mid-to-low 80s across the region.
| Location | Saturday high |
|---|---|
| Seattle / interior Puget Sound | Mid–low 70s |
| Coast | Low 60s |
| Eastern & central WA | Low 90s |
Seattle residents planning outdoor activities should expect a cool, cloudy start to the day with improving conditions by afternoon. Those with interests or property in eastern and central Washington should monitor local fire advisories and heed any restrictions tied to the Red Flag Warning.
Local officials and fire agencies will be watching conditions closely as the heat and gusty winds increase fire risk. For the most current updates on watches, warnings and road or park restrictions, check county emergency pages and official National Weather Service advisories.
