Seattle Scorches with Hottest June Day in Nearly Eight Decades

Heat Wave Pushes Temperatures to Record Highs Across the Pacific Northwest

An Unusually Hot Day for Seattle

Seattle experienced an extraordinary weather event this weekend as temperatures soared higher than they have in nearly 80 years. On June 8, 2025, the mercury hit a scorching 90 degrees Fahrenheit at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport around 5 p.m., smashing past early forecasts that had predicted highs in the low 80s. This marked the hottest June 8 on record since 1948, when the previous record stood at 87 degrees.

This year's extreme heat broke that long-standing milestone, a mark that was only tied once before in 2015. Meteorologists confirmed that this is likely the first time Seattle has seen such high temperatures on this date.

Bellingham Ties Historical Record

While not all parts of the Puget Sound region saw new records fall, Bellingham reached a notable milestone of its own. The city matched its previous high of 82 degrees, a record that had held since 1955.

Though it didn’t break new ground, the tie serves as yet another indicator of the broader heat trend blanketing the Pacific Northwest.

Heat Advisory Continues Through Monday Night

The heat wave isn’t over yet. A heat advisory remains in effect through Monday at 10 p.m., with temperatures expected to remain in the mid- to upper 80s. Monday is projected to be another uncomfortably warm day, with both daytime heat and mild overnight lows continuing to affect residents.

Meteorologists expect the high-pressure ridge responsible for the heat to start easing its grip by Tuesday. A gradual cooldown is anticipated, with Tuesday dropping a few degrees and Wednesday expected to settle into the more seasonal 70s.

How Long Will It Last?

This burst of hot weather falls within what meteorologists consider a normal duration for a heat wave. For conditions to be labeled as unusually prolonged, temperatures would need to persist at elevated levels for at least five or six days.

That said, the current stretch is enough to make a mark, especially with Seattle setting a new benchmark for early June.

Warm Air Meets Cold Waters

Despite the sizzling air temperatures, local bodies of water like Puget Sound remain dangerously cold. Water temperatures are hovering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which can pose serious risks to swimmers, kayakers, and others enjoying recreational activities.

Authorities advise residents to exercise caution when near or in the water, as the stark contrast between hot air and cold water can increase the risk of cold shock or drowning.

2025’s Warmest Day So Far

This record-breaking Sunday stands out as the warmest day of the year so far, with large parts of the Pacific Northwest experiencing temperatures in the 80s and 90s. The rare early-summer heat wave has prompted widespread discussion about shifting climate patterns and the increasing frequency of such weather anomalies.

While the heat is expected to ease in the coming days, the impact of this weekend’s record highs will likely be remembered—and analyzed—for years to come.