NORTH SOUND, JULY 17: The rain deficit across the North Sound and the entire Pacific Northwest continues to grow as this period of dry weather continues.
Much of the North Sound and the state are now in moderate or severe drought according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The combination of hot weather and dry conditions means the region is ripe for wildfires.
Everett – Paine Field has had only 5.27 inches of rain thus far this year, only 30% of the average for the entire year through mid-July. Closer to the Cascade foothills, Monroe has received just under 21 inches of rain so far, about 77% of average.
And in the usually wetter Cascade foothills of Snohomish County, Darrington has had just less than 30 inches of precipitation, close to 68% of normal for the year.
Yet, there is no significant rain in sight to offer any relief from the ongoing dry conditions. July is the driest month of the year. If longer-range forecast charts are on track, there may not be any rain through at least the end of this month. Periods of morning marine clouds could squeeze out some mist or drizzle.
Any light amounts of precipitation will fall well short of dampening the heightened wildfire conditions heading into August.
Wildfire conditions and precautions
There are 10 active wildfires across the state as of early this week, including the Toonerville and Bear Gulch Fires in nearby Mason County. The ramp up in temperatures is going to amplify wildfire potential.
Everyone can help prevent wildfire starts and the consequential poor air quality from wildfire smoke. Some wildfire precautions include:
- If camping, be sure the campfire is cold before leaving the site.
- National Parks in Washington State have campfire bans.
- All North Sound counties and fire districts, including Snohomish, Skagit and Island counties have outdoor fire bans in place. Check with local authorities to learn the latest details.
- If towing, be sure to tighten tow chains to avoid sparks when dragging on roadways.
- Avoid tossing burning materials such as cigarettes out of vehicles. This behavior is how many roadside fires start. Washington state law carries a hefty fine for tossing a burning cigarette out the window of $1,025.
A change in the hot weather pattern is expected to unfold late this week and into the weekend. Nature’s air conditioning is forecast to kick in with cooler onshore breezes from the Pacific Ocean, resulting in morning clouds and afternoon clearing. This weather pattern change should knock high temperatures back down by this weekend, July 18-20, into the 70s with 60s near North Sound shorelines.
