Forecasters Predict Wet Season to Arrive Next Week, Promising Relief from Smoke and Dry Weather

PORT ANGELES — The Pacific Northwest could finally see the start of its wet season next week. Forecasters say there’s a strong chance of above-normal rainfall moving in, beginning around the middle of the week.

The latest outlook from the National Weather Service points to a 50 to 60 percent chance of wetter-than-usual conditions across much of the region, with the odds climbing to 60 to 70 percent along the Washington and Oregon coasts.

M eteorologists say the pattern shift will help bring relief from dry summer weather and could improve air quality by clearing out wildfire smoke that’s been drifting into the area.