The old saying “the coast is clear” will not apply to our weather this week. In fact, sunshine if any will be at a premium along the ocean beaches as a trough of low pressure dominates our weather pattern all week.
Locally, that means varying amounts of marine low clouds and afternoon clearing. Highs will be less than 80 degrees most days. The last day with a high less than 80 degrees was July 17 with 76 degrees. So, a little break from the existing warm weather pattern as we slide through the end of July.
At least no rain is in sight except for patchy drizzle here and there. We may end up the month with no measurable moisture.
Highs on Saturday were ten degrees lower than Friday west of the mountains and those 100 degree readings on the east side were down in the 90s and dropping into the 80s. No complaints.
Despite lower temperatures east of the mountains the fire danger remains high and, with the cooler marine push coming in, westerly winds will be gusty. Not good news for the big wildfire between Goldendale and Toppenish. An increased chance of thunderstorms may erupt in eastern Washington the next few days.
Last year at this time we were still waiting for our first 90 degree day which didn’t appear until August. In 2011 it didn’t occur until August 20th. This year July 1 had a high of 91 degrees. It is a pleasant month however with our average mean temperature at 69.5 degrees, 1.3 degrees above average.
The weather is outstanding for local gardens. It will be great weather with the cooler temperatures to visit the Salmon Creek Farmer’s Market this Thursday located just west of Interstate 5 on NE 134th Street. There should be lots of fresh local produce. It was good weather in July to produce some very nice large raspberries.
Patrick Timm is a local weather specialist. His column appears Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Reach him at http://weathersystems.com.
