The subtle Gulf Stream keeps things warmer than they ought to be but things are never too cushy on this side of the country, with harsh North Atlantic winds and rain sweeping over the west coast. Generally summers, while never hot, are warming up a bit thanks to global climate change, but you'll want to make sure the winds have dropped before you walk out in a t-shirt. Winters probably aren't as cold as you think but, along with autumn, get the most rain.