SEATTLE — A surge of monsoonal moisture moving into Washington state from the southeast is bringing with it a chance of thunderstorms and lightning strikes this week.

Though chances of lightning remain relatively low, the potential for pop-up storms comes during an extended period of hot, dry weather that is elevating fire risks .

There is a 15-20% chance of thunderstorms, mainly in the Cascades of Lewis and Pierce counties Tuesday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service. That could bring with it dry lightning strikes.

Thunderstorm possibilities expand Wednesday to include the Cascade crest from Whatcom County to Lewis County. Possibilities remain below 25%.

There is also a "very slight" chance for thunderstorms in the Olympics on Wednesday.

Thursday has the highest cha

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