Lots of lightning, a July 3 crash and a hopeful forecast of fireworks

As predicted by high-resolution weather models, there was heavy thunder and a lot of lightning east of WA, east of OR and the Washington Cascades, forced by an upper-level trench moving into the area. our.

The 24-hour lightning strike map ending at 1:00 a.m. today (Sunday) shows HUNDREDS of lightning flashes in the area, with a major streak of lightning extending from central Oregon to southeastern Washington plus with another group east and east of the Washington Cascades.

Lightning continues today as major thunderstorms have developed east of Washington (see an hour of lightning ending at noon below). Infrared satellite image overlaid – you can see a possible vortex of the upper level low.

Satellite images at noon are bleak for those who love sunny dry skies. The west of Washington was completely affected, and strong thunderstorms (oval cloud features) spread across eastern Washington.

Simultaneous weather radar images showing moderate rain (green and yellow) over parts of western Washington and areas with intense rain (and even some hail) during a thunderstorm in the east Washington (red).

You have been warned this will happen.

What about the rainfall in the last 24 hours (ending at noon)? As shown below, substantial rainfall in the northern Cascades and Rockies, and several locations in the Columbia River basin received at 0.70 inches. Light to moderate rain over North Washington.

This wetting will reverse the risk of wildfires….and one should be aware that NO major wildfires are burning in Washington State right now. Hopefully people will be responsible with (or not) fireworks in vulnerable areas.

Now I know what you’re wondering: Will it be rainy and cold during fireworks time tomorrow? What about the conditions for organizing an outdoor barbecue party or gathering?

Well, I think I have some (relatively) good news: although there may be some lingering showers on Monday morning, by the early evening it’s usually dry. But not warm: mid-60s in the West. Beautiful in the Columbia River basin.

Here’s the rainfall forecast from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. tomorrow, July 4. A few sprinkles in NW Washington and near the Canadian border. It rains a lot in BC….but that doesn’t matter!

The next few days after the 4th of July weekend will see a low of 70 with the chance of a few sprinkles. No heatwaves in sight.

We have about 2.5 months of summer left.