According to the June 8, 2021 U.S. Drought Monitor, 78.1% of the Pacific Northwest Drought Early Warning System (DEWS) is in drought. Washington, Oregon, and Idaho all experienced their second driest March–May period on record (since 1895), and drought conditions have continued to expand throughout the region, which could contribute to increased wildfire potential. What's the outlook going into summer?
This webinar features conditions, climate outlooks, as well as presentations on the long-term drought effects on fire in the Northwest and on the extremes driving the western Oregon wildfires of September 2020.
Presenters:
Climate Recap & Current Conditions
Larry O'Neill | Oregon Climate Service
Seasonal Conditions & Climate Outlook
Troy Lindquist | Boise Weather Forecast Office, National Weather Service
Long-Term Drought Effects on Fire in the Northwest: What We Know and Don't Know
Brian Potter | Pacific Northwest Research Station, U.S. Forest Service
Compound Extremes Drive the Western Oregon Wildfires of September 2020
John Abatzoglou | University of California-Merced