Take a deep breath.
A visible satellite image this morning (July 1), shows no evidence of smoke anywhere over the Pacific Northwest.
This clean air situation is confirmed by air quality observations provided by the EPA AirNow network (below). Green indicates excellent air quality,
There is only one small fire burning right now in the Northwest: the Roza Creek Fire (about 700 acres) between Yakima and Ellensburg. This fire, burning mainly in grass, is now 75% contained and probably started by human error. Strong downslope winds during the afternoon and evening have sustained it, but such winds should weaken in two days.
The July 4th Threat
Grasses and small vegetation are now dry enough to burn in eastern Washington, with afternoon/evening winds along and east of the eastern Cascade slopes adding to the threat.
There is now a red flag warning out for much of eastern Washington (see below). That indicates the acute potential for wildfire.
All that is needed is an ignition source, such as fireworks. A plot of historical Northwest fires by date (below) shows a HUGE peak on July 4th. The number one day of the year.
And the supply of fireworks contributes to fires during the subsequent weeks as well. Wildfires can also be started by errant barbecues, campfires, and shooting practice.
The Warm Up
Conditions should be warm, but not extreme, this week. In western Washington, temperatures will rise into the mid to upper 80s by mid-week, with temperatures rising to near 100F in the Tri-Cities (see predictions below). Interestingly, the extended forecasts are suggesting a return to the persistent pattern of spring, with a trough over California.
This pattern could bring below-normal temperatures to California and the return of thunderstorms to the Northwest.
More on that in a future blog.
Thanks Cliff, for the request that people be considerate of others and respect our region....when we all know that they won't.
ReplyDeleteThanks Cliff! I keep trying to sound the alarm about poor forest management however no one appears to be listening, although I did see a recent BBC documentary showing how in parts of CA the agencies are working with local tribes to learn about traditional forest management techniques and performing controlled burns. I live in Cle Elum and hike all around the area. Nearly all of the forests are choked full of dead fall, brush and trees have been planed too close together after previous logging activities. All it takes is a single ignition source and fires would start that would be almost impossible to extinguish due to the rugged terrain and access. Even more concerning is that more and more luxury homes are being built deep into forested areas of which local firefighters are expected to protect. In my opinion, this issue is separate from climate change and weather because regardless, the forests are unhealthy and will burn one day.
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