Wildfire & Insurance: Washington’s Insurance Commissioner urged homeowners to get ready for the Upriver Fire and wildfire season, offering guidance on protecting property and navigating claims. Fire Response: The Tucannon Fire near Dayton exploded to thousands of acres, triggering state emergency mobilization, Level 3 evacuations, and added strike teams and aircraft. Public Health Waters: Lake Meridian beach in Kent closed after high bacteria levels were found; other King County beaches also posted swim bans. Wildlife Safety: WDFW reported a teen injured in a black bear attack on the Mount Si trail; officials say hikers should give bears space and avoid feeding wildlife. Climate-Smart Farming Research: WSU Vancouver researcher Stephanie Porter is working on a “more natural pathway” to help plants absorb nitrogen from the air using microbes. Energy Transition: A sustainable aviation fuel plant opened in Moses Lake, producing eSAF using renewable electricity. Shellfish Closures: Paralytic shellfish poison was detected, forcing closures in Hood Canal and Admiralty Inlet. Local Outdoor Recreation: WDFW set 2026 recreational crabbing dates for Bellingham and the San Juan Islands, with daily limits and gear rules. Ocean Science: Lawmakers pressed NSF to reverse plans to dismantle the Ocean Observatories Initiative, a $386 million network used for climate and marine research. Data Center Backlash: A Washington-related debate over data centers continues as communities push for safeguards and limits.