Chance of thunderstorms brings increased fire risk to region, WA officials say
The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Red Flag Warning until 11 p.m. Thursday due to a chance of thunderstorms and lightning strikes in the region.
NWS officials said the Cascade and Olympic Mountain Ranges present the highest danger because of their tree canopy.
But other warm and dry areas, like Thurston County, should be cautious, too.
There is a chance of thunderstorms here, but largely before 3 p.m. Thursday, according to the forecast for the Olympia area.
There’s also an 80% chance of rain, the forecast shows. The daytime high is expected to reach 72 degrees.
Although the storms will pass, dry conditions will persist. National Weather Service officials said the summer climate increases the chance that fires started from lighting strikes won’t go out.
After Thursday, temperatures in the Olympia area ramp up into the high 80s by Sunday, according to NWS.
Those in rural areas should verify they can contact emergency services and receive fire-related communications, NWS advised.
Outdoor burning is not recommended.