Location Comparison: San Diego and Seattle

San Diego California and Seattle Washington have some similarities when it comes to their weather. First they are both located on the west coast of the United States meaning that the cool Pacific ocean currents impact both locations in addition most of the precipitation in both locations occurs in the winter months although Seattle sees much more precipitation. Both locations also experience the weather phenomenon termed the "Pineapple Express" which is a fairly constant stream of moisture that comes from Hawaii. This is characterized with a precipitation pattern that can last for as much as a week, although those that live in Seattle would say that this lasts all year long! That is where the similarities end. The average annual temperature in Seattle Washington is around 52 degrees a full 12 degrees lower than that of San Diego California at an average annual temperature of 64 degrees. When comparing the climate graphs of both locations it can be seen that San Diego has a more moderate climate with a smaller difference in monthly high and low temperatures than that of Seattle. In addition the climate graph for Seattle seems to show more continentality meaning there is a fairly large range in temperatures from season to season. This explains the occasional snowfall in the winter months, which is very rarely seen in Southern California.

source:http://drought.unl.edu/archive/climographs/SanDiegoANC.htm

source:http://drought.unl.edu/archive/climographs/SeattleANC.htm

snow covered Cuyamaca Mountains east of San Diego