Excessive Heat — Cascades of Pierce and Lewis Counties, Washington

2022-07-30 · Cascades of Pierce and Lewis Counties, Washington

Event narrative

An observation site at Mt Rainier National Park in Longmire recorded a record high temperature of 95 degrees on July 30.

Wider weather episode

A strong ridge of high pressure built across the Pacific Northwest at the end of July, making for well-above normal temperatures for most of Western Washington. Afternoon high temperatures in the interior lowlands soared into the 90s, with little relief during the overnight periods with lows in the 60s. This brought about a high probability of heat-related impacts to the area, especially those without an adequate means of cooling and/or hydration. Towards the beginning of August, the return to onshore flow from the Pacific brought about a relief from the heat.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1049306. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.