Forecasters are expecting some of this week’s high temperatures will likely end up in the record books. High temperatures in the Ferndale area are currently forecast to be in the high 80s and low 90s between Tuesday and Friday.
As a result of these much warmer temperatures and the lack of measurable rain for several weeks, the The National Weather Service (NWS) in Seattle has issued a Excessive Heat Watch for Puget Sound area south of Skagit County and a Special Weather Statement for Skagit and Whatcom County today.
The Special Weather statement stated, “Locations where hot weather is less common will experience unusually hot temperatures Wednesday, Thursday, and possibly Friday. Highs in the upper 80s to the 90s are likely just inland from the coastal beaches. The hot weather could extend into Friday for some areas but this remains uncertain at this time. Record high temperatures are possible at many locations during this period.”
NWS also issued a Fire Weather Watch, which is in effect from Tuesday afternoon through Thursday evening. A Fire Weather Watch means critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur.
Click for more information
Click for more informationRelative humidity levels are forecast to drop from a normal range of 40 to 60 percent down to 15 to 20 percent during the afternoons. Conditions may become favorable for rapid spread on any new or existing fires.
Whatcom County Fire Marshal enacted a Stage 1 burn ban for the county earlier this month that only allows for recreational campfires. A permanent burn ban applies within the Ferndale city limits.
NWS advises to observe precautions during a heat wave including drinking plenty of fluids, seeking air conditioned areas and avoiding prolonged outdoor activities. Do not leave children and pets in cars, even with cracked windows. Heatstroke can occur quickly in vehicles resulting in illness or death.