Mount Rainier National Park
Weather
Mt. Rainier is so big, it makes its own weather. At an elevation of 14,410 feet, the mountain lies only 100 miles east of the Pacific Ocean in the heart of a mild, maritime climate. But the clouds that often collect around the mountain, forming a cap on the summit, clearly indicate a change in weather.
Large mountains like Rainier make their own weather by forcing incoming air masses upward as they strike the mountains. As the air rises it cools at an average rate of 3.5 degrees Fahrenheit per 1000 feet, forming clouds and increasing precipitation as the air rises over the mountains. On the leeward side of the mountains the air descends down slope, warms, and increases the amount of water vapor it can hold. This leeward side of the mountain receives less precipitation, in what is called a "rain shadow."
The heaviest snowfall on Mt. Rainier occurs between the 5,000 and 11,000 foot elevations. Year round weather stations are located at Longmire (2761 feet), Ohanapecosh (1949 feet) and Paradise (5400 feet) ranger stations for recording precipitation, temperature, wind direction, and cloud cover. The Paradise Ranger Station is known for its snowfall, holding a record for the most accumulated snowfall in a single year, 1122 inches (93.5 feet) of snowfall in 1971-72.
Mountain weather is very changeable. Wet, cold weather can occur anytime of the year. While late-July and August can be the driest, warmest time of the year, summer can also be wet and cool. Snow will remain at the 5,000 to 8,000 feet elevation well into mid-July. Hikers and mountain climbers should be prepared for changing weather. Pay attention to weather forecasts, both one day and long range, avalanche warnings, and special weather alerts. Have extra clothing, rain gear, and a tent for protection against storms anytime of the year. Know the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.
Weather Facts
Annual average precipitation:
Longmire: 87"
Ohanapecosh: 75"
Paradise: 126"
Average annual snowfall at Paradise:
635"
Maximum snowfall at Paradise in one
year:
1122", winter 1971-1972
Minimum snowfall at Paradise in one
year:
313", winter 1939-1940
Average summer low/high temperatures:
Longmire: 44/68 deg F
Paradise: 41/60 deg F
Ohanapecosh: 47/75 deg F
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