EVERETT July 2:
Holiday Travel, Gas Prices, Fireworks Safety
Some say it always rains on the Fourth of July, but does it? Is that a myth? Let’s look at the weather records for Independence Day this century at Everett Paine Field so far.
Going back through 2001, it has rained only five times at Paine Field. The heaviest amount fell in 2002 with nearly two-tenths of an inch of rain. The other four dates had very light amounts – 5 hundredths of an inch or less, the last coming in 2016.
High temperatures on July 4 since 2001 have ranged from a cool 60 degrees to a hot 85 degrees in 2015. Last year, the high temperature was 83 degrees under full sunshine. Since the start of the century, the average Independence Day high temperature at Paine Field has been 70.7 degrees.
This Week’s Weather Forecast Including the Fourth
During early July, it is quite common to have a weather pattern of morning clouds and afternoon sunshine, and that is the case through Wednesday. High temperatures will be seasonal, ranging from the upper 60s to mid-70s across much of the North Sound.
The forecast for this year’s North Sound Independence Day looks to be one of sunshine and a warm day. Highs across the region will range from the upper 60s near the shorelines to 80 or better inland with plenty of sunshine.
As higher pressure continues to build over the Pacific Northwest through the week, by Friday high temperatures are expected to rise into the 80s in many locations. For some, these temperatures will heighten heat health-related concerns.
Holiday Week Travel
Travel for this week is already underway with some taking the whole week off. Travel is expected to peak on Wednesday, and Sunday is when many who left town during the week – all return.
Across the nation according to the American Automobile Association (AAA) travel forecast, nearly 71 million Americans are anticipated to travel over 50 miles for the Independence Day holiday week, likely a new record. Over 60 million will drive and almost 6 million will fly.
Locally on the road, highways like I-90, I-5, and US 2 will be busiest each day through this weekend from late each morning until around 7 p.m.
If using the ferry system, keep in mind that Washington State Ferries continues to suffer fewer available vessels and occasional staffing shortages. Ferry authorities note that the busiest sailings for vehicles will likely be westbound (or onto an island) before the holiday, and eastbound (or off island) following the holiday.
Be sure to check the ferry schedule on their website or app for the latest available information, and plan for delays in ferry terminal waits. To reduce waiting, riders may consider taking an early morning or late-night sailing or by using transit to walk or bike onto the ferry if possible.
Gas Prices
At the gas pump, prices are expected to be about five cents lower than last year’s Independence Day holiday period, and about a buck and a half lower than in 2022. According to AAA Travel, average prices across the state are around $4.31. Yet in Skagit County and Northeast Washington, prices are under $4 a gallon for regular gas.
Fireworks and Warm Dry Conditions
With the exception of a bit wetter than average May, this year has been drier than normal. Grasses and shrubs are dry, and fireworks can easily ignite them. If using fireworks, be sure to have plenty of water on hand to knock down any fires that may start.
The best choice to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays throughout the North Sound. As the country celebrates its 248th birthday, have a safe and sane Fourth of July with family, friends, and neighbors.
