Abnormal dryness and hot temperatures are persisting in the Pacific Northwest, presenting significant wildfire risk and, in some areas, shifting water operations.
And the summer is only halfway over.
The Pacific Northwest’s drier-than-normal climate coupled with record heat has led to “excessively dry” vegetation throughout the region, according to the Northwest Coordination Center. Fires can grow quickly in these conditions and easily endure once ignited, potentially causing health issues linked to prolonged smoke exposure.
The U.S. Forest Service announced Wednesday that it expects fire restrictions to increase in the coming weeks. The agency recommends the public track smoke forecasts and fire closures — that, and prevent wildfires.
To stay updated on burn bans, visit www.dnr.wa.gov/burn-restrictions. The Southwest Clean Air Agency provides air quality ratings and smoke forecasts at www.swcleanair.gov/burning/airquality.asp.
Clouds and a trace amount of rain Monday provided a needed cooldown for Clark County following excessive early summer heat. The National Weather Service in Portland reported on Wednesday that temperatures are normal for this time of the season, ranging in the low 80s, but will rise early next week — a trend that will climb to above-normal temperatures in August.
Yale Reservoir affected
Dry, hot weather has already shifted electric company PacifiCorp’s operations along the Lewis River between Cowlitz and Clark counties.
Pacific Power, a PacifiCorp business unit, reported Wednesday that dry conditions required it to lower Yale Reservoir’s water levels. The Merwin Dam, one of the company’s Lewis River hydroelectric sites, needs an adjustment to meet federal license flow requirements, which exist to support fish populations in the lower river.
PacifiCorp will lower the reservoir the week of July 31, effectively closing most boat ramps around the body of water.
More information about Yale Reservoir’s low water impacts can be found at www.pacificorp.com/community/recreation/washington.
