Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
An emergency drought declaration now affects Whatcom and Skagit Counties in Washington due to low water supplies. The Washington State Department of Ecology expanded the declaration after rapid snowmelt and higher spring temperatures. Drought advisories also remain in effect for the Seattle, Tacoma, and Everett metro areas.
The Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) expands bus service in Bellingham starting June 15, adding four new routes and increasing frequency to key locations. New routes will improve access to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center and Bellingham Technical College, while some existing routes will see reduced service.
Federal funding cuts threaten the future of the Cascade Job Corps program in Skagit County, which provides job training for underprivileged youth. A federal judge temporarily blocked the program's shutdown, allowing classes to resume next week. The program serves approximately 250 young individuals, many of whom face homelessness or unsafe living conditions.
The Washington State Republican Party seeks to end the state's vote-by-mail system, led by State Rep. Jim Walsh's initiative requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration. The initiative aims to restore trust in elections and will be discussed in the 2026 Legislative session.
Kaycee Antila, 28, received a 20-month prison sentence for vehicular manslaughter after fatally hitting pedestrian Tyler Ford while driving under the influence in Whatcom County. Antila admitted to consuming several drinks before the May 2022 incident, with her blood alcohol content later found to be twice the legal limit.
Whatcom County celebrates summer with various events this weekend, including the Lynden Farmer’s Day Parade on June 7. Families can enjoy the 2025 Safety Fair and a Community Crafting Day in Ferndale, while music lovers can attend concerts at local venues.
The Seattle Mariners lost to the Baltimore Orioles 4-3, marking their eighth loss in 11 games. Cal Raleigh hit his league-leading 24th home run, but the Orioles quickly responded with back-to-back home runs to secure the win. The Mariners will look to rebound against the Los Angeles Angels tomorrow.
Ferndale Police seek public assistance in locating 18-year-old Ezra Smith, missing since May 24. He was last seen in downtown Bellingham wearing specific clothing and has distinct physical attributes. Authorities urge anyone with information to call 9-1-1.
The Bellingham Bells achieved a shutout victory over the Kamloops NorthPaws, winning 3-0 in their season opener. The Mariners lost to the Baltimore Orioles 5-1, marking their third consecutive loss since George Kirby's injury. Meanwhile, the Storm ended their losing streak by defeating the Dallas Wings 83-77.
The Chelan County Sheriff’s Office continues its search for Travis Decker, a father suspected of murdering his three daughters, ages 5, 8, and 9. Sheriff Mike Morrison expresses gratitude for the public's assistance, which includes tips and equipment offers, as federal officers and two helicopters from Spokane County join the search efforts. The girls were found dead near Decker's truck at a campground after their mother reported them missing.