Comparing Rainfall in Tacoma and Seattle
Both Tacoma and Seattle are cities located in the western part of Washington state, and they both experience a significant amount of rainfall each year due to their proximity to the Pacific Ocean. But when it comes to the question, “Does it rain more in Tacoma or Seattle?” the answer might not be as straightforward as one might think.
Rainfall in Seattle
Seattle is synonymous with rain and is often perceived as the rainiest city in the United States. According to the National Weather Service, the city receives an average annual rainfall of 37.49 inches. This rainfall is not evenly dispersed throughout the year. Instead, the majority of it falls during the colder months, from October to April. Despite this perception, Seattle doesn't claim the title for the city with the most rainy days in a year. That title goes to Rochester, New York.
Rainfall in Tacoma
Tacoma, on the other hand, is located approximately 32 miles southwest of Seattle. Like its northern neighbor, it experiences a significant amount of rainfall annually, with an average of 39.48 inches per year, according to the National Weather Service. Similar to Seattle, Tacoma's rainfall is heavier during the colder months, with the bulk of it falling between October and April.
Comparing the Two Cities
When comparing the average annual rainfall in both cities, it's clear that Tacoma receives slightly more rain than Seattle, about 2 inches more per year. However, the difference is relatively small and unlikely to be noticeable on a day-to-day basis. Both cities have a similar climate characterized by mild, wet winters and dry, warm summers.
Final Verdict: Tacoma or Seattle?
So, in answering the question, “Does it rain more in Tacoma or Seattle?”, the answer is Tacoma, but only by a small margin. It's important to note that while Tacoma may receive more total rainfall in a year, both cities experience a similar number of rainy days. Thus, while you might get a bit wetter in Tacoma over the course of a year, the frequency of rainy days in both cities is nearly identical.
Despite the high levels of rainfall, both Tacoma and Seattle have much to offer residents and visitors alike. From stunning natural beauty to vibrant cultural scenes, these cities exemplify the appeal of the Pacific Northwest, rain or shine.
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