Western WA is primed to burn as dry, warm conditions persist

Western Washington is facing elevated wildfire risk as drought conditions, warm temperatures, and low rainfall persist through August and into fall. The region is 2–4 inches behind average rainfall, with much of western Washington abnormally dry or in moderate drought. Recent historical examples like the 2017 Scatter Creek Fire and 2020 Labor Day fires show how quickly wind-driven fires can threaten neighborhoods. Residents should create defensible space around homes now and avoid ignition sources like unattended campfires.