Dust Storms and Wildfires Predicted in Eastern Washington
The state is warning that Eastern Washington faces a run of dust storms and wildfires in coming months, thanks to a looming drought.
The Department of Ecology says the same conditions that set the stage for a drought – above-average temperatures and low snowpack – will create dry fields and forests in Eastern Washington.
The agency says spring and summer thunderstorms will bring the threat of dust storms to the Columbia Basin and lightning-caused wildfires throughout the region.
Ecology recommends that Eastern Washington residents carry dust masks as a precaution.