Fall-like weather may soon return to Washington after a quick warmup

Western Washington is bracing for a heat wave as temperatures are forecasted to reach the 90s beginning Sunday. The latest drought monitor from NOAA indicates that all of western Washington is experiencing at least moderate drought conditions, with some regions classified as facing severe or extreme drought. The dry conditions in the central to north Cascades heighten the risk of rapid wildfire spread if new fires ignite. Forecasters predict a 33 to 40 percent likelihood of below-normal temperatures in the next one to two weeks. Additionally, NOAA reports a 40 percent chance of above-normal rainfall during this period.

This combination of weather changes suggests that after the brief heat wave, the fall-like conditions seen recently could return. Such fluctuations in weather patterns highlight the ongoing challenges posed by climate variability. Residents are advised to stay vigilant regarding potential fire hazards while looking forward to possible relief from the heat.