Gusty Winds and Dry Conditions, A Warning Sign for Fourth of July

Officials are issuing a Fire Weather Alert, with gusty winds, low humidity, and temperatures in the mid-80s keeping fire risk high.

Remember, we are only nine days before the Fourth of July.

Here in the Tri-Cities, fireworks sales legally start on June 28, but there are still places to get them now.

The conditions you are seeing today are exactly what fire officials worry about on July 4th.

The Elevated Fire Danger has Been Real for Months Now in Washington

This is not just a warning of fire danger. The Garred Road fire near Coulee City is currently burning today. It started in grass and brush just four miles west of town, with multiple structures threatened and road closures already in effect.

Gusty and erratic winds are being forecast across the Cascade gaps and into the Inland Northwest through the rest of the week.

On June 28, when fireworks sales open, the same kind of wind pattern could be blowing through your neighborhood.

Know Your Local Fireworks Rules Before You Buy

Fireworks rules across the Tri-Cities vary enough that it makes it easy to make mistakes. The best rule is to buy within the city limits you plan on lighting them off, because then you know they will be legal.

Kennewick recently lifted its longtime ban, making consumer ground-based fireworks legal starting June 28 at noon. Pasco has the same schedule. Richland and West Richland follow state law with many more legal options. Franklin County does not allow any fireworks outside the Pasco city limits. Prosser, Connell, Kahlotus, and Mesa all prohibit fireworks completely.

Benton County commissioners have the authority to implement emergency fireworks bans in unincorporated areas if fire danger reaches extreme levels.

The Wind and the Fireworks Do Not Mix

Remember, buy fireworks in the city where you intend to use them. Also, check local fire department advisories before the holiday for any emergency bans that may have been triggered by conditions.

And have a fun and uneventful 4th of July holiday!

Seahawks Celebrate 60 – Seattle, Washington

Gallery Credit: Aj Brewster

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