Weather Overview in Tacoma
Tacoma enjoys a mild marine climate influenced by the Puget Sound, with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Average annual temperature is around 52°F (11°C), with highs reaching 75°F (24°C) in July and lows dipping to 36°F (2°C) in January. Precipitation totals about 40 inches (102 cm) yearly, mostly from October to March, averaging 152 rainy days. Summers are pleasant for outdoor campus activities at Tacoma Community College, while winters require preparation for frequent drizzle. Explore academic opportunities in the United States, Washington, or Tacoma via AcademicJobs.com.
Seasonal Weather Patterns at Tacoma Community College
Spring (March-May) brings mild temps of 50-65°F (10-18°C) with decreasing rain, ideal for campus walks. Summer (June-August) features highs of 70-75°F (21-24°C), low humidity, and minimal rain, perfect for studying outdoors. Fall (September-November) sees cooling to 55-65°F (13-18°C) with increasing showers. Winter (December-February) averages 40-47°F (4-8°C) highs, frequent rain, and occasional snow flurries. Tacoma Community College advises checking alerts for closures; students may need rain gear, adding $100-200 yearly for coats and boots. Utilities rise 10-20% in winter for heating. Safety includes slip-resistant shoes; the college provides indoor study spaces during storms. Link up with higher-ed-jobs in this vibrant area.
Spring/Summer
🌤️ Mild, dry—great for faculty commutes.
Fall/Winter
🌧️ Wet, cool—plan for umbrellas and layers.
Environmental Factors in Tacoma
Tacoma sits at sea level (average elevation 200 ft/61 m), on glacial till with underlying sedimentary geology near Puget Sound. Air quality is generally good (AQI 20-50), though summer wildfire smoke from regional fires can elevate it temporarily. Pollution is low, with PM2.5 averages under 8 µg/m³, supporting healthy campus life at Tacoma Community College. The college promotes sustainability through green initiatives. Geology includes earthquake faults; no active volcanoes directly, but Mt. Rainier looms 50 miles east. These factors enhance liveability for students and staff. Check higher-ed-career-advice for relocation tips.
Natural Hazards and Safety at Tacoma Community College
Tacoma faces earthquake risks from the Cascadia Subduction Zone (last major 1700, potential magnitude 9+), occasional floods from Puyallup River, landslides on hillsides, and rare severe storms. Wildfires are low risk locally but smoke affects air; droughts infrequent; no significant tidal waves. Volcanoes like Rainier pose lahar threats (rare). Tacoma Community College has robust emergency protocols: annual drills, alert systems via app/email, evacuation maps on campus, and partnerships with Pierce County alerts. Safety measures include reinforced buildings and go-bags for faculty/students. Low annual event frequency supports safe studying. Discover more on Academic Jobs in Washington.
| Hazard | Frequency | College Response |
|---|---|---|
| Earthquakes | Moderate risk | Drills, retrofits |
| Floods | Occasional | Alerts, sandbags |
| Landslides | Rare | Monitoring |
Liveability and Comfort Ratings for Tacoma
Tacoma's weather and environment offer strong liveability for Tacoma Community College community, balancing mild temps with rain challenges. Ratings reflect comfort for daily campus life, study focus, and outdoor recreation, aiding job seekers and students deciding on relocation.
These ratings highlight Tacoma's appeal; students note productivity boosts in mild weather. Read insights alongside Rate My Professor at Tacoma Community College. Explore university salaries here.
Costs and Equipment for Weather in Tacoma
Tacoma weather incurs extra costs: $150-300/year for raincoats, boots, umbrellas; utilities $100-200 more in winter; flood insurance optional (~$500/year). No AC needed, but heaters common. Essentials: waterproof gear, layers, studded tires for rare ice. Tacoma Community College offers gear swaps. Budget-savvy for job seekers—pair with community college jobs.
Health and Living Conditions at Tacoma Community College
Mild climate reduces heat/cold stress, but dampness raises mold/allergy risks; good air quality aids respiratory health. Rain impacts biking/walking—campus shuttles help. Enhances outdoor campus life, boosting mental health. University provides wellness centers, flu shots. Ideal for faculty families. Check professor salaries in Tacoma.
Resources for Weather Preparedness in Tacoma
- National Weather Service alerts for Puget Sound.
- Tacoma Public Utilities app for outages.
- 🌤️ College emergency page with guides.
- Pierce County hazard maps.
- Apps like Weather Underground for hyperlocal forecasts.
Stay informed for seamless studies. Visit academic calendar resources.
Student Perspectives on Tacoma Environment
Students at Tacoma Community College often praise the mild weather in Tacoma for fostering a relaxed study vibe, though frequent rain prompts indoor group sessions and cozy library days. Many discuss how the local climate impacts focus and productivity, with dry summers enabling beach study breaks near campus, while winter drizzle encourages virtual collaborations. Environmentally, clean air and green spaces enhance well-being, but earthquake awareness adds resilience training. Read their detailed experiences alongside professor reviews on Rate My Professor at Tacoma Community College; feedback highlights how Tacoma's climate supports balanced academics and life.
Prospective students and faculty share that despite rain, the overall environment boosts outdoor adventures post-class. Dive into real voices on Rate My Professor for Tacoma Community College to gauge professor quality amid local weather chats. Those eyeing adjunct professor jobs note the appeal.

