VIDEO/PHOTOS: King County leaders and fire officials are expecting an active wildfire season. They're also asking communities to get ready in case evacuations are needed.
Fire officials said drought conditions and Washington's low snowpack are contributing to a potentially troubling wildfire reason.
"Our new reality is warmer and drier summers, and with that comes the increased potential for wildfires and wildfire smoke events, which we know can be incredibly dangerous for people and damaging to property," said King County Executive Dow Constantine at a wildfire awareness event Thursday. The King County Sheriff's Office unveiled two new helicopter water buckets Thursday, which officials said will boost their wildfire response capabilities.