Seattle, Washington — A significant early-summer heat wave is pushing temperatures well above normal across western Washington, prompting weather officials to issue a heat advisory for millions of residents through midweek.
Forecasters say temperatures across the Puget Sound region could rise 15 to 20 degrees above seasonal averages, bringing some of the hottest weather the area has experienced so far this year.
The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory covering Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, Everett, and much of the central Puget Sound region through Wednesday night, while some surrounding areas remain under advisories through Tuesday evening.
Temperatures Expected to Peak Near 90 Degrees
The warm-up began Monday as temperatures climbed into the 80s across much of western Washington.
Weather experts expect the hottest conditions to arrive Tuesday, when many communities are forecast to reach the upper 80s to low 90s.
Some locations south of Olympia could see temperatures climb even higher, potentially reaching the mid-90s.
The unusually warm conditions are being fueled by offshore winds that are temporarily shutting down the marine air flow that typically helps keep western Washington cooler during the summer months.
Without that natural cooling influence, temperatures are expected to rise rapidly throughout the region.
Seattle Could Record One of Its Hottest Days of the Year
Forecasters say Seattle-Tacoma International Airport may reach the 90-degree mark during the heat wave.
If that happens, it would become only Seattle’s second 90-degree day of 2026. Historically, the city averages about three days each year with temperatures reaching 90 degrees or higher.
Despite the heat, meteorologists do not expect daily temperature records to be broken.
The standing record highs for June 22 through June 24 remain 92 degrees, all established during a notable heat event in 1992.
Still, temperatures approaching those levels are relatively uncommon for June in western Washington and could create uncomfortable conditions for residents who are not accustomed to prolonged heat.
World Cup Fans Advised to Prepare for Hot Conditions
The heat wave is arriving as Seattle prepares to host another World Cup match.
The Qatar vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina match is scheduled to kick off at noon Wednesday, when temperatures are expected to be around 80 degrees.
Weather officials are also warning that the ultraviolet index will be very high, increasing the risk of sunburn and heat-related illnesses for spectators spending extended periods outdoors.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, seek shade when possible, and limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
Cooler Weather Expected Later This Week
Relief from the heat is expected to arrive by late Wednesday and Thursday as onshore winds return to the region.
Those winds will help bring temperatures back closer to normal summer levels, with highs generally returning to the 60s and 70s across western Washington.
Forecasters are also tracking a weather system expected to move through the area on Thursday.
Sunshine, Low Humidity and Comfortable Temperatures Return to Maryland Midweek
If the system develops as anticipated, it could bring the region its first measurable rainfall since June 9.
Meteorologists are still evaluating how much moisture the front may produce, but many residents will welcome the cooler temperatures after several days of unusual heat.
Summer Begins With a Heat Wave
The hot weather follows the official start of summer, which arrived Sunday during the summer solstice. Seattle experienced nearly 16 hours of daylight, making it one of the longest days of the year.
The city’s latest sunset of the year is expected at 9:11 p.m., a time that will continue through June 29.
As summer gets underway, officials are urging residents to take the heat seriously and stay informed about changing weather conditions throughout the week.
How are you preparing for this week’s heat wave? Do you prefer hot summer weather or the cooler temperatures typically seen in the Pacific Northwest? Share your thoughts in the comments below.