Washington faces early, high-risk wildfire season

Washington anticipates a high-risk wildfire season this summer, attributed to record-breaking heat and expanding drought. Meteorologist Ted Buehner highlights Seattle's rainfall deficit of about 5 inches, warning that an extended fire season is likely without significant rainfall. The Department of Ecology expanded its drought emergency declaration, affecting multiple counties across the state. The Climate Prediction Center predicts elevated temperatures and reduced rainfall from July to September, intensifying concerns. Wildland fire meteorologist Matthew Dehr states that the wildfire season could commence as early as June.

Funding cuts for wildfire prevention exacerbate the situation, leading to reduced resources and increased crew exhaustion. Caroline Mellor from the DOE notes that this year's dry spring caused the snowpack to melt 33 days earlier than usual, emphasizing the need for preparedness. Approximately 73% of wildfires in Washington from 1992 to 2020 were human-caused, underscoring the importance of public caution around fire safety measures.