Seattle and surrounding cities prepare for extreme cold with very low temperatures

Seattle, Washington – Forecasters estimate freezing temperatures that might approach record lows, hence Washington residents are getting ready for a quite severe cold spell this week. Major cities including Seattle, Bellevue, Everett, Tacoma, and Bremerton make up the Puget Sound region covered by a Cold Weather Advisory issued by the Seattle National Weather Service (NWS). This advisory is in force Monday evening through Wednesday morning.

Temperatures around this time can drop to between 15 and 20 degrees Fahrenheit, producing quite frigid wind chills. Though the temperatures are cold, sky should be mostly clear with sunny conditions and daytime highs hovering about 40 degrees in metropolitan Seattle. These conditions mark some of the coldest weather the region has seen in decades, particularly mid-winter.

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Meteorologist Cliff Mass identities a certain atmospheric pattern causing this extraordinary cold. Often referred to as an “omega block,” this pattern shows a high-pressure ridge offshore surrounded by low-pressure troughs. This arrangement directs northern cold air into the region, hence maintaining low temperatures.

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The NWS advises locals to be very careful during the cold spell. Pets should be kept indoors, and check on neighbors, acquaintances, and elderly family members who might be sensitive to severe cold. The NWS also advises against using portable heaters improperly and emphasizes that the potential of carbon monoxide poisoning means generators or barbecues should never be used indoors.

“Very cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia with prolonged exposure and will impact vulnerable populations such as the homeless, pets and those without adequate access to heating,” NWS Seattle noted in their advisory.

The forecast shows a minor warming trend as the week goes on, but not before Tuesday and Wednesday morning lows might possibly set records for the area. Complicating the week’s weather, a front predicted to arrive from the south might bring Thursday and Friday rain and snow showers. This precipitation along with the current cold could cause difficult travel conditions and contribute to daily routines.

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Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local weather updates and prepare for a week of staying warm and safe as the cold snap takes hold.