Climate and monthly weather forecast
Olympia, WA

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The calm Capitol Lake overlooking the Washington State Capitol building in Olympia, Washington
The calm Capitol Lake overlooking the Washington State Capitol building in Olympia, Washington

The climate of Olympia

Olympia, Washington, sits within a Mediterranean climate zone characterized by warm summers, known by the Köppen climate classification as Csb. The overall clime of Olympia displays a range of changes over the months in terms of temperature, precipitation, and other climatological variables. Monthly average temperatures span from a lesser low of 33.4°F (0.8°C) during the coolest times, up to a peak of 78.6°F (25.9°C) in the warmest month. Relative humidity tends to stay between 71% to 89%, lending a moderate level of atmospheric moisture throughout the year.

Notably, precipitation in Olympia varies significantly, ranging from a minimal 0.39" (10mm) in the driest phase to a strong 5.79" (147mm) during high-rainfall periods. Similar variations appear in the count of rainfall days, offering a low of 5.5 days up, to a high of 20.4 days. One remarkable aspect of Olympia's climate is the lack of snowfall for several months, with only minor amounts appearing in the colder months, from a little 0.24" (6mm) to a negligible 2.32" (59mm).

The best time to visit Olympia

Those planning a visit to Olympia might enjoy the weather most between May and September. This period is notable for its friendly temperatures, ranging from a comfortable 57°F (13.9°C) to a pleasant 78.6°F (25.9°C). In addition, these months experience the least rainfall, varying from a mere 0.39" (10mm) to 1.81" (46mm). Besides, the number of rainfall days during this period is relatively lower, with 5.5 days to 11.7 days, encouraging outdoor activities. Daylight hours also peak during this period, ranging from 13.6 hours to 15.8 hours per day, providing longer days for exploration.

The worst time to visit Olympia

Travelers might find the period from November to January least favorable for visiting Olympia. These months experience relatively lower temperatures, between 33.4°F (0.8°C) to 46°F (7.8°C), which can be quite chilly. There is also a higher volume of rainfall, ranging from 5" (127mm) to 5.79" (147mm), coupled with an increased number of rainfall days (18.7 days to 18.9 days), which may hinder outdoor activities. Furthermore, daylight hours are at their minimum, from 8.6 hours to 9 hours, leading to shorter days.

Spring weather in Olympia

The spring months in Olympia are accompanied by a gradual rise in temperatures from 46°F (7.8°C) to 57°F (13.9°C) and lowering humidity levels, from 88% to 82%. Rainfall during this period reduces as well, varying from 3.5" (89mm) to 2.76" (70mm), and there is a decrease in rainfall days from 17.4 days to 18.4 days. These months also mark a slight increase in daylight hours, starting from 10.3 hours and extending to 13.6 hours per day.

Summer weather in Olympia

Summer ushers in the warmest months in Olympia, with average temperatures towering from 65.7°F (18.7°C) to 78.6°F (25.9°C). Humidity drops during this season and ranges from 75% to a yearly low of 71%. Rainfall touches its yearly minimum in summer, dropping as low as 0.39" (10mm), while the number of rainfall days also hits a minimal 5.5 days. Long days and more sunshine typify the summer season with daylight extending from 15.1 hours to 15.8 hours per day.

Autumn weather in Olympia

Autumn sees a fair drop in temperatures, moving from 70.5°F (21.4°C) to 48.6°F (9.2°C). Humidity levels rise to 89%, and rainfall inches back up to fall between 1.81" (46mm) to 5" (127mm), and rainfall days increase to between 11.7 days and 18.7 days. Daylight hours start shrinking from 12.5 hours to 9.4 hours, signaling shorter days.

Winter weather in Olympia

Winter introduces the coldest months in Olympia, with temperature averaging from 43°F (6.1°C) to 34.3°F (1.3°C). These months also witness the highest level of rainfall, varying from 5" (127mm) to 5.79" (147mm). Coinciding with increased rainfall is the number of rainfall days, spanning from 18.7 days to 18.9 days. The amount of daylight is at its smallest during winter, ranging from 8.6 hours to 9 hours.

Weather in January

The weather in Olympia, Washington begins the year with chilly temperatures, but without extreme cold. January witnesses higher precipitation, therefore, it is essential to keep an umbrella handy. Compared to February, the temperatures remain relatively low, with the highest temperature recorded being 44.6°F (7°C) and the lowest being 34.3°F (1.3°C). Weather in January »

Weather in February

February in Olympia ushers in a slight increase in temperature and decrease in rainfall from the previous month. The month continues to exhibit high humidity, complemented by overcast conditions. Snowfall increases to 2.32" (59mm), making it the month with maximum snowfall. Weather in February »

Weather in March

The arrival of spring in March brings moderate weather in Olympia. There is an uptick in temperatures, with more sunshine and extended daylight hours. More rainfall also occurs, with an average rainfall of 3.94" (100mm). While the weather generally provides a pleasant outdoor experience, respite from the chill of winter, it still tends to be unpredictable. Weather in March »

Weather in April

April experiences a noticeable shift in the weather of Olympia, Washington. The temperature begins to rise, offering a reprieve from the lingering winter chill. The rainfall significantly decreases from 3.94" (100mm) in March to 2.76" (70mm) in April. Weather in April »

Weather in May

May is the gateway to summer in Olympia, with significantly warmer temperatures. The comfortable weather boosts outdoor activities, whether it is lounging in parks or exploring the city's streets. Albeit there is a drop in rainfall to 1.77" (45mm), the humidity remains quite high. Weather in May »

Weather in June

June marks the official start of summer in Olympia, allowing residents and tourists to enjoy the city in full swing. The weather continues to warm up, with the early morning fog gradually dissipating, revealing clear blue skies. Rainfall decreases further to 1.26" (32mm), making it one of the driest months of the year. Weather in June »

Weather in July

July in Olympia delivers the quintessential summer experience. It is the warmest month of the year, characterized by long, sunlit days. The reduced rainfall is stark, dropping to 0.39" (10mm)—marking it as the driest month. One can enjoy outdoor dining, local festivals, and other activities without worrying about sudden showers. Weather in July »

Weather in August

August is another prime summer month in Olympia, with the weather mostly remaining warm. Despite the occasional cloudy day, sunshine dominates the month, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Rainfall increases slightly, but only to 0.47" (12mm), maintaining the trend of summer dryness. Weather in August »

Weather in September

September in Olympia signals the onset of fall, with a decrease in temperature and a gradual increase in rainfall. Despite the month witnessing increased rain, 1.81" (46mm), the outdoors remains pleasant. This is the perfect month to take leisurely walks and experience the changing foliage around the city. Weather in September »

Weather in October

October is the transition month, where Olympia witnesses a shift from warm autumn weather to the crisp chill of winter. Rainfall steadily increases from 1.81" (46mm) in September to 4.65" (118mm) in October. Shorter daylight hours become noticeable, while leaves change their color adding to the city's visual appeal. Weather in October »

Weather in November

November in Olympia puts winter on the horizon as the temperature continues to fall. The increase in rainfall, 5" (127mm), contributes to the relative humidity, making the weather feel colder than it is. Reduced daylight hours and occasional snowfall start to set the tone for the winter season. Weather in November »

Weather in December

December seals the year with Olympia fully enveloped in winter. The temperature falls further, with higher chances of snowfall as compared to the previous months. Rainfall peaks with an average of 5.79" (147mm), the maximum precipitation for the year. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 14, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate

Frequently asked questions

What are the most humid months in Olympia?

The months with the highest humidity in Olympia are January, November and December, with an average relative humidity of 89%.

How much does it rain in Olympia?

Throughout the year, in Olympia, there are 177.4 rainfall days, and 37.05" (941mm) of precipitation is accumulated.

When does it snow in Olympia?

January through March, November and December are months with snowfall.

How many days does it snow in Olympia?

In Olympia, during the entire year, snow falls for 8.7 days and aggregates up to 5.31" (135mm) of snow.

What is the month with the lowest UV index in Olympia?

January, February, November and December, with an average maximum UV index of 2, are months with the lowest UV index.

When does it snow the most in Olympia?

February is the month with the most snowfall in Olympia, Washington. Snow falls for 3.3 days and accumulates 2.32" (59mm) of snow.

When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Olympia?

On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts in Olympia, Washington, and the time zone changes from PST to PDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from PDT to PST.

When it does not snow in Olympia?

April through October are months without snowfall.

When are the longest days in Olympia?

June has the longest days of the year in Olympia, Washington, with an average of 15h and 48min of daylight.

What are the months with the highest UV index in Olympia?

June and July, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the highest UV index in Olympia, Washington.

What is the least humid month in Olympia?

July is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 71%.

What is the driest month in Olympia?

The month with the least rainfall is July, when the rain falls for 6.9 days and typically collects 0.39" (10mm) of precipitation.

What is the warmest month in Olympia?

August, with an average high of 78.6°F (25.9°C) and a low of 50.5°F (10.3°C), signifies the warmest month of the year in Olympia.

What month has the most sunshine in Olympia?

With an average of 10.2h of sunshine, August has the most sunshine of the year.

What part of the year is the coldest in Olympia?

December is the coldest month in Olympia, exhibiting average temperatures of 43°F (6.1°C) at the peak and 33.4°F (0.8°C) at the base.

What is the rainiest month in Olympia?

The month with the most rainfall in Olympia is December, when the rain falls for 18.8 days and typically aggregates up to 5.79" (147mm) of precipitation.

What is the month with the shortest days in Olympia?

The month with the shortest days in Olympia is December, with an average of 8h and 36min of daylight.

What is the month with the least sunshine in Olympia?

With an average of 3.4h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year in Olympia, Washington.

Average temperature
Olympia, WA

Average temperature - Olympia, WA

The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is August (78.6°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (43°F).

The month with the highest average low temperature is August (50.5°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (33.4°F).

Average pressure
Olympia, WA

Average pressure - Olympia, WA

The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.09"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is March (30.01"Hg).

Average wind speed
Olympia, WA

Average wind speed - Olympia, WA

The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are March and November (4.6mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is September (3.8mph).

Average humidity
Olympia, WA

Average humidity - Olympia, WA

The months with the highest relative humidity are January, November and December (89%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is July (71%).

Average rainfall
Olympia, WA

Average rainfall - Olympia, WA

The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (5.79").
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is July (0.39").

Average rainfall days
Olympia, WA

Average rainfall days - Olympia, WA

The month with the highest number of rainy days is March (20.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is August (5.5 days).

Average snowfall
Olympia, WA

Average snowfall - Olympia, WA

The month with the highest snowfall is February (2.32").
The months with the least snowfall are April, May, June, July, August, September and October (0").

Average snowfall days
Olympia, WA

Average snowfall days - Olympia, WA

The month with the highest number of snowfall days is February (3.3 days).
The months with the least snowfall days are May, June, July, August, September and October (0 days).

Average daylight / Average sunshine
Olympia, WA

Average daylight / Average sunshine - Olympia, WA

The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 15h and 48min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 8h and 36min).

The month with the most sunshine is August (Average sunshine: 10h and 12min).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 3h and 24min).

Average sunshine days
Olympia, WA

Average sunshine days - Olympia, WA

The month with the most sunshine days is August (22.4 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is February (8.4 days).

Average UV index
Olympia, WA

Average UV index - Olympia, WA

The months with the highest UV index are June and July (UV index 5).
The months with the lowest UV index are January, February, November and December (UV index 2).

Average cloud cover
Olympia, WA

Average cloud cover - Olympia, WA

The months with the most cloud cover are January and December (Cloud cover 65).
The months with the least cloud cover are July and August (Cloud cover 35).

Average visibility
Olympia, WA

Average visibility - Olympia, WA

The months with the highest visibility are June, July and August (5mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November and December (4mi).

Olympia, Washington, USA

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