Extreme heat watch issued for Central Washington
While it won't reach the 116 degree temps of June 29, 2021, Monday is expected to be a very hot day in North Central Washington with temperatures in Ephrata reaching 102 and regional temperatures possibly reaching as high as 105. Area residents are encouraged to be safe in the heat.
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MOSES LAKE – The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for several regions in Central Washington, including the Moses Lake and Wenatchee areas, effective from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday evening.
The watch comes as high temperatures are forecast to reach between 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
The impacted areas include Ephrata, Wenatchee, Othello, Quincy and others, according to the report.
Monday is anticipated to be a moderate to major heat risk, dry and breezy. Tuesday is expected to have a moderate heat risk, dry and breezy. Wednesday is anticipated to be dry and windy with a minor heat risk. Thursday is forecasted to be dry and breezy with isolated thunderstorms in Northeast Washington and a minor heat risk.
The statement said extreme heat poses a heightened risk for heat-related illnesses. Individuals are advised to drink plenty of fluids, stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, and monitor the health of neighbors and family members, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to the heat, such as the elderly or individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
In addition to the heat advisory, the NWS is closely monitoring fire weather conditions. Elevated fire weather risks are anticipated Monday and Tuesday, particularly in Central Washington. Dry and breezy conditions could develop, potentially leading to an increased likelihood of fire spread in dry fuels.
A burn ban is in effect in Grant and Adams counties as fire season begins and fire risks due to extreme temperatures increase.
"Every year, we face increased fire danger during the summer months. The burn ban is not just a rule; it’s a vital step in protecting our homes, farmland, and natural landscapes from devastating wildfires. We’re asking everyone to be vigilant and do their part,” said Grant County Fire District 3 Chief David Durfee in a recent interview with the Columbia Basin Herald.
Around the area, local firefighters have responded to multiple small wildfires over the last eight weeks, with at least two exceeding 100 acres in size. Generally, they have been human-caused, often by people burning debris in windy conditions. Firefighters continue to ask that residents observe the burn ban and ensure they and their neighbors are safe from fire.
“When people don’t burn, we don’t have any problems,” said Interim Fire Administrator Mike Ganz of the Moses Lake Fire Department recently.
