70 Degrees Possible Thursday, Before A Weekend Cooldown In Puget Sound

SEATTLE — In classic fashion for spring in the Pacific Northwest, the forecast has a little bit of everything over the next few days — including a shot at April snow. Before that, much of Puget Sound should break into the 70s Thursday, making for the warmest afternoon of the season so far amid partly sunny skies. But the heat won't be sticking around for long.

"Most of the southern half of the area, including the Seattle metro area, look to break into the lower 70s while the remainder of the [region] will still see temps in the mid to upper 60s," NWS Seattle wrote Wednesday. "This warming trend will be short-lived, however, as a weak frontal system will make its way to the coast Thursday evening and spreading inland overnight bringing some light rain to the area."

Forecasters expect afternoon temperatures will tumble more than 15 degrees between Thursday and Friday, setting up for a cooler, wetter weekend. After Friday, afternoon temperatures will struggle to reach the 50s as overnight lows tiptoe into the 30s. If the timing is right, the lowlands may even catch a few snowflakes over the weekend.

"Residual shower activity will continue as this wave pushes through, with snow levels dropping to between [300 - 600 feet] over a large portions of the lowlands," forecasters said. "This, combined with low temps in the low to mid 30s will make for the chance of snow showers and snow flurries Sunday morning. "Given warm ground temps, the marginal air temps, and the expected lighter nature of the showers, no accumulation or impacts are expected. But will certainly be a surprise to see after a 70 degree day Thursday."

The rain/snow mix should clear out before noon, and the rest of Sunday looks to be partly sunny and cool. Forecasters expect scattered rain showers will be the norm through early next week, with afternoon temperatures in the low 50s.