Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Washington's Department of Health urges residents aged six months and older to receive the COVID-19 vaccine amid a multi-state health alliance with Oregon, California, and Hawaii. This recommendation follows recent FDA guidance limiting vaccine eligibility to older adults and those with qualifying conditions. Vaccine availability may face limitations in the coming months.
The U.S. Forest Service announced the closure of Heather Meadows Visitor Center as air quality in eastern Whatcom County deteriorates, with levels exceeding 150 on the air quality index. Reports indicate that air quality levels near the Perry Fire have reached as high as 250, posing health risks to the public.
The Perry Fire near Ross Lake has burned over 1,300 acres amid ongoing dry conditions in Whatcom County, WA. Air quality has deteriorated, with unhealthy pollution levels reported near the Mount Baker Ski Area, prompting concerns for residents in the region.
High school football season kicks off in Whatcom County with the return of The Zone’s Friday Night Lights show. Meanwhile, the Seattle Seahawks prepare to open their season against the San Francisco 49ers, and the Mariners struggle to regain form after a challenging road trip.
Whatcom County Superior Court will hold a traveling court session in Lynden on September 8 to provide updates on the ongoing water adjudication process. Residents can learn about water rights related to the Nooksack River Basin and ask questions at the Lynden Senior Center after the hearing.
A juvenile was arrested in Everson following a drive-by shooting on Wednesday night, with no injuries reported. Witnesses described a silver SUV playing loud music before multiple gunshots rang out near East Main Street and Greens Lane. The investigation continues, but authorities assure the community there is no ongoing threat.
A report from the Office of Finance and Management estimates that tariffs imposed by the Trump administration could raise grocery prices in Washington by 16% over two years. Governor Bob Ferguson warns that these tariffs may also lead to job losses, particularly in trade-dependent sectors such as agriculture and aerospace.
Whatcom County's unemployment rate rose to 4.5% in July, up from 3.5% in June. Skagit County experienced a similar increase, while Washington state's seasonally adjusted rate remained unchanged.
The Washington state Supreme Court will hear a challenge to a natural gas initiative passed last November. The initiative, backed by a conservative PAC, aims to protect access to natural gas, but critics argue it combines unrelated proposals to mislead voters. A hearing date has not yet been scheduled.
The Seattle Mariners lost to the Tampa Bay Rays 9-4, marking their fifth loss in six games during a challenging road trip. Meanwhile, the Seattle Seahawks secured a three-year, $46 million extension for right tackle Abraham Lucas, who has battled injuries over the past two seasons. The NFL season kicked off with the Philadelphia Eagles facing the Dallas Cowboys.