Seattle, Washington – Hot, dry, and unstable conditions are raising wildfire risks across the West Slopes of the Cascades and the Black Hills through Wednesday night, threatening communities from North Bend to Olympia and beyond.
According to the National Weather Service, a Fire Weather Watch remains in effect from Tuesday morning through Wednesday evening for Fire Weather Zones 655, 658, and 659. Winds will range from 5 to 20 mph, with relative humidity dropping as low as 24 percent—creating dangerous conditions for rapid fire spread and downwind spotting.
Communities in the West Slopes of the North and Central Cascades, including areas above 1,500 feet near Snoqualmie Pass, Leavenworth, and Mount Rainier National Park, should be on high alert. The Black Hills and Southwest Interior Lowlands, including Shelton, Tumwater, and the southern edges of Olympia, also face elevated fire risk as north winds increase.
Residents are urged to avoid any open flames or outdoor burning, secure spark-producing equipment, and keep emergency kits ready in case of rapid evacuations. Those living near wooded areas should prepare for possible air quality issues if fires ignite.
This is the first critical fire weather event of July for the region. The Fire Weather Watch will remain in effect until at least 11 p.m. Wednesday, and additional Red Flag Warnings may be issued if conditions worsen.
