OLYMPIA—Governor Jay Inslee issued an emergency proclamation on August 16 to help clear and repair roadways affected by wildfires in Ferry, Klickitat, Skagit, and Yakima counties.Â
Since July 2024, Washington state has experienced abnormally dry weather conditions with periods of exceptionally high temperatures, creating high-risk fuel conditions in these counties. The resulting large number of fires has also created damage to transportation infrastructure requiring increased response activity.
To respond to the fires, the Washington State Department of Transportation will close certain parts of state highways that will limit access to the affected roadways for a significant period to address wildfire impacts.
The estimated cost of response activities and roadway repairs because of wildfires in Ferry, Klickitat, Skagit, and Yakima counties as of the date of the Proclamation are over $3,500,000 and expected to increase, according to the Governor’s Office. Also, abnormally high wildfire potential is predicted to continue through the remainder of August, September, and October due to high-risk fuel conditions.
Hurray for the cool change and cleaner air across wide swaths of WA over the past few days. Conditions should continue over the weekend, although a new wildfire in the Olympic Mountains may affect air quality in Brinnon. More about the outlook here: https://t.co/PpOZVOzYd1. pic.twitter.com/VGpXjIQtjB
— WA Department of Ecology (@EcologyWA) August 16, 2024
The Washington DNR fire dashboard is active throughout the fire season and shows up-to-date information on wildfires affecting Washington state. Click here to link to a full screen version.Â
Author: Mario Lotmore
