48-hour migraine risk based on barometric pressure, humidity, and temperature changes in Tacoma.
Tacoma sits on Commencement Bay at the southern end of Puget Sound, with Mount Rainier dominating the skyline to the southeast. Pressure averages 1007 hPa, and November ranks among its most volatile months, earlier than most of the country.
Worst season for migraines: December, February and November. Pacific Northwest storm season begins in autumn rather than midwinter, which is why November already ranks near the top here. From then through February a steady procession of systems crosses the region, each holding pressure depressed for a day or more.
Common triggers in Tacoma: Puget Sound convergence zone banding, extended low pressure through the wet season, autumn onset of the Pacific storm track. The Puget Sound convergence zone forms when air splitting around the Olympic Mountains rejoins east of them, producing a band of enhanced precipitation that sets up in a predictable place. Tacoma sits near its southern edge, so it catches the zone on some flow patterns and misses it on others. Winter here means extended periods of low pressure rather than sharp individual events.
Typical pressure: Tacoma averages 1007 hPa at rest, measured at the city's own elevation rather than corrected to sea level, and storm systems can push readings down to 989 hPa. Swings of 6-12 hPa over 24 hours are common during active weather and fall within the range most associated with pressure-triggered migraines.
Can Tacoma weather trigger migraines?
Yes. Tacoma experiences 6-12 hPa barometric pressure swings, and research shows pressure drops are one of the most common migraine triggers. The city's specific patterns include Puget Sound convergence zone banding, extended low pressure through the wet season, autumn onset of the Pacific storm track.
What time of year are migraines worst in Tacoma?
In Tacoma the most barometrically volatile stretch of the year falls in December, February and November. That is when weather is most likely to play a part, if weather is a trigger for you at all.
How do I track migraine triggers in Tacoma?
Use MigrAid to log your attacks with one tap. The app automatically records barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity at the time of each migraine, then finds patterns between your attacks and Tacoma's weather conditions over time.
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