Drought is expected to impact much of the Pacific Northwest this summer, including areas in eastern Washington.
YAKIMA, Wash. — Drought is expected to impact much of the Pacific Northwest this summer, including areas in eastern Washington, southern Oregon and southern Idaho.
A recent map from the U.S. Drought Monitor shows that about 54% of Washington is experiencing abnormally dry or drought conditions, with about 25% of the state in an area of severe or extreme drought. The Yakima Herald-Republic reported that Washington and Oregon recorded above-normal precipitation levels and below-normal temperatures in April.
But state climatology experts predict it will be warmer and drier than normal in summer months. There are early indications that the summer will be on the warm side, but experts say the chance of a severe heat wave is unlikely.