Dry, Smoky Conditions Continue Throughout the Northwest

September has started hot, dry and smoky across most of the Inland Northwest.

The USDA has designated the entire state of Washington, and most of Eastern Oregon, Abnomally Dry, and with temperatures well above normal, the dry conditions are starting to impact growers and producers.

National Weather Service’s Dennis Hull said, “A little bit of a concern for planting wheat. The soil moisture may not be enough to get wheat to germinate unless you go really deep.”

Hull adds the region could see a light system roll into the area Thursday evening into Friday, bringing windy conditions, cooler temperatures, and perhaps rain showers along the Cascades.

He noted the showers will be isolated, and should not negatively impact farming operations.

“So the field work and the hay and vegetable harvest should be able to proceed without much delay. And the rain won’t be enough to put out any of the numerous wildfires.”

Hull says with ongoing dry conditions, irrigation usage will be high in excess of 2” for some alfalfa growers.

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