Four Distinct Seasons Define Our Valley

Yakima County lies within the rain shadow of the Cascade Mountain Range, making the total amount of precipitation within the region relatively low.  The summers are dry and hot, and winters are cool with light snowfall.  The maritime influence is strongest in the winter when the prevailing westerlies are stronger and steadier.  The modifying influence of the Pacific Ocean is less evident in summer.

The region enjoys four separate and distinct seasons. Sunshine is the norm as Yakima County gets over 270 blue sky days per year. Average precipitation is eight inches a year, almost half of which occurs as snowfall in the months of November, December, and January. The average winter temperature is 37^o, spring 63^o, summer 88^o, and fall 64^o.  Annual snowfall averages 20 to 25 inches.  The average growing season is 195 days. This perfect weather makes Yakima a leader in agricultural products, wine production, outdoor recreation, and tourism.

Monthly Temperature & Precipitation