On Aug 16th, Gov. Jay Inslee issued an emergency proclamation to help clear and repair roadways affected by wildfires in Ferry, Klickitat, Skagit, and Yakima counties.
Since July 2024, Washington state has experienced abnormally dry weather conditions with periods of exceptionally high temperatures, creating high-risk fuel conditions in these counties. The resulting large number of fires has also created damage to transportation infrastructure requiring increased response activity.
To respond to the fires, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will close certain parts of state highways that will limit access to the affected roadways for a significant period to address wildfire impacts.