The 2026 Wildfire Season is Fast Approaching

Washington faces a concerning 2026 wildfire season ahead. An exceptionally warm winter left record-low snowpack across the state, especially east of the Cascades, and a dry spring has further desiccated vegetation. The Northwest Coordination Center forecasts above-normal wildfire potential in eastern Washington in June, spreading statewide by August. An emerging El Niño event could bring warmer, drier conditions and northerly winds that transport smoke into western Washington more frequently than recent years. Smoke-Ready Week runs June 1-5 to help residents prepare.