January 17th, 2026 Timelapse
On January 17th, the day began with a thick blanket of low clouds covering the sky almost completely, yielding a cloud cover of approximately 95.7%. The temperature hovered around 34.0°F, providing a chilly start to the day. At the surface, winds were gentle, averaging just 3.2 mph, but as one ascended to 100 meters, wind speeds increased to 7.8 mph, creating a noticeable shear between these levels. This difference in wind speed contributed to the low clouds' sluggish movement, subtly shifting but maintaining their dense presence throughout the morning. Despite the overcast conditions, no precipitation was recorded, suggesting that the clouds were more of a thick layer rather than actively producing rain, leading to a tranquil yet somewhat gloomy morning ambiance.
As midday approached, the weather began to evolve dramatically. The cloud cover dipped significantly to around 17.0%, allowing some breaks in the clouds and a glimpse of the blue sky above. Surface winds maintained their moderate pace, averaging 3.3 mph, while winds at 100 meters slowed slightly to 6.0 mph. This reduction in higher-altitude winds contributed to a more stable atmosphere, allowing the remaining clouds to drift lazily across the sky. The contrasting conditions between the surface and higher altitudes created a gentle turbulence, especially noticeable for those watching the clouds as they shifted slowly, with the lower layer moving more sluggishly compared to the lighter breezes aloft. The temperature began to rise, reaching an average of 47.8°F, marking a delightful transition that hinted at the warmer air to come.
By the evening, the scene changed again dramatically, with total cloud cover dissipating to zero as the sun began its descent. The surface wind picked up slightly to an average of 4.0 mph, while winds at 100 meters increased to 10.8 mph, reinforcing the clear sky above. This increase in upper-level winds, combined with the absence of clouds, created a perfectly calm and serene atmosphere but also hinted at a shift in weather patterns to come. The lack of turbulence was striking, as the winds aligned more uniformly in direction, allowing for a tranquil evening. The temperature cooled slightly to an average of 44.2°F, closing out the day with a crispness that only winter can bring. Overall, January 17th showcased a dynamic range of weather patterns, from a heavily overcast morning to a beautifully clear evening, highlighting the ever-changing nature of the Pacific Northwest sky.
January 17th, 2026 Timeline
Screenshots with weather data (wind layers, clouds, precipitation)
Weather Info for January 17th, 2026
Sunset: 4:56 PM