Seattle Local — 2026-06-13#

Top Story#

A Heat Advisory has been issued for Seattle from Sunday through early Tuesday, with temperatures forecast to reach nearly 90 degrees. The unseasonable heat wave arrives just as the city experiences an influx of visitors and prepares to host its first 2026 FIFA World Cup match on Monday. Officials are urging residents to take precautions, especially when participating in outdoor activities or seeking relief in local waters.

Local News#

King County Council Approves Transportation Sales Tax · KING 5 In a narrow 5-4 vote, the Metropolitan King County Council approved a 0.1% countywide sales tax increase to fund transportation improvements and road maintenance. The measure aims to address decades of funding shortages and will be paid by residents across urban, suburban, and rural areas starting next year.

Bellevue Residents Threaten Legal Action Over Light Rail Noise · KOMO News Homeowners in Bellevue’s Enatai neighborhood allege that Sound Transit’s new 2 Line trains crossing the East Channel Bridge are violating local noise limits. Residents claim the low-frequency rumble, which they say exceeds 80 decibels, is disrupting their sleep and quality of life. Sound Transit acknowledged the complaints but declined to comment further, citing potential litigation.

Massive Fire Destroys Ballard Plumbing Warehouse · KIRO 7 A fierce blaze destroyed the Consolidated Supply Co. warehouse in Ballard, drawing a response from over 100 firefighters and sending smoke as far south as Federal Way. Employees safely evacuated before the fire caused a series of intense explosions fueled by the plumbing and piping materials stored inside. The official cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Dunn Lumber CEO Deploys Banner Combating Prostitution on Aurora Ave · KOMO News Mike Dunn, CEO of Dunn Lumber, is launching a provocative anti-sex-buying campaign by hanging a large banner at the company’s Aurora Avenue location. The grassroots effort aims to discourage individuals from purchasing sex and is intended to help combat the related sex trafficking and gun violence plaguing one of Seattle’s most troubled corridors.

Puyallup Tribe Makes History with FIFA Recognition · KIRO 7 The Puyallup Tribe of Indians has become the first Indigenous nation to be officially recognized as a host by FIFA. The tribe kicked off its World Cup festivities with a massive parade through Tacoma on Friday night and will continue to host watch parties, traditional games, and Salish cultural celebrations throughout the tournament.

Community & Lifestyle#

If you’re looking to escape the heat or the World Cup crowds, Puget Sound will experience its lowest tides of the year on Monday, offering prime tide-pooling opportunities to view sea stars, crabs, and anemones. For those traveling south from Canada for the games, Amtrak Cascades trips from Vancouver, B.C., to Seattle are now faster; a new U.S. Customs preclearance designation at the Vancouver station eliminates the need to stop for inspections in Blaine. Finally, the Seattle Seahawks wrapped up minicamp by receiving their high-tech, 20-carat Super Bowl LX championship rings before heading off on summer break.