Hot and dry weather is predicted for Mother’s Day weekend (May 9-10), presenting an elevated risk for wildfires across the state.
The Washington State Department of Natural Resources has already responded to 230 wildfires this year. Of those, 120 were caused by people burning debris.
Winds this weekend could see gusts of up to 25 mph and temperatures are expected to reach the high 70s and mid-80s. The greatest effects will likely be seen on the western slopes of the Cascades. In areas with grasses, fires will burn faster and hotter with high winds.
Temperatures should cool next week. The DNR is asking residents to not burn through the weekend.
Campfires, vehicles and equipment like chainsaws should be monitored so they don’t start fires.
Talk to us
Please share your story tips by emailing editor@kentreporter.com.
To share your opinion for publication, submit a letter through our website https://www.kentreporter.com/submit-letter/. Include your name, address and daytime phone number. (We’ll only publish your name and hometown.) Please keep letters to 300 words or less.
