WAWG
From NASS
Statewide temperatures in Washington for the month of January were below normal.
In Western Washington, early January was cold with snow and freezing temperatures. Late January transitioned back to heavy rainfall throughout the district. In San Juan County, vine and tree fruit pruning had started on days without massive storm events and rain. Most other crops planted for fall into winter harvest were hit badly. Some high tunnels successfully carried crops over, but some crops were lost to frigid temperatures. In Whatcom County, farmers were still trying to assess the damage left from the floods late last year. Many portions of fields were under water as excessive moisture continued into December and January. Some berries had been under water for more than two months. The floods resulted in the need for replanting of grass and berries. Streams and ditches were inundated with silt and debris, which backed up water flow.
In central Washington, additional amounts of freezing rain and light snow occurred. In Chelan County, snowpack across the region was in good shape. Warmer temperatures during this time of year helped settle and melt snow on the ground. Farmers were excited about the prospects of finally coming out of the drought. In Yakima County, there was some orchard pruning and tree training completed. Livestock were on feed only, and ranchers were preparing to start calving.
In east-central Washington, farmers spent most of the month doing repairs and preparing for the upcoming season. In Adams County, conditions were overall favorable for winter wheat. Moisture and temperatures were near average, but above average precipitation was needed. In southeast Washington, most conditions were normal for the month of January. Cold temperatures, snow and fog remained throughout the area. Some flooding was received in late January, but there were no effects on livestock or cropping systems.