Good morning, Yakima.

During Tuesday's Washington State Tree Fruit Association meeting at the Wenatchee Convention Center, growers discussed how oversupply and low prices are prompting efforts to market pears and cherries with digital ads and free samples.

Panelists (including local experts) outlined plans to boost local and export sales.

Gas prices in Yakima fell by 9.9 cents per gallon over the last week, with an average of $3.67 today from 91 stations (prices are 21.6 cents lower than a month ago and 12.4 cents higher than last year).

West Richland officials report that floodwaters are receding and key roads are open, plus an incoming atmospheric river is set to bring heavy rain and mountain snow that may raise the Yakima River to flood stage by early Thursday.

Floodwaters in Selah and the Yakima Greenway have receded after heavy snowmelt and rain, leaving muddy areas and blocked parking lots with most places safe.

Emergency crews monitor Highway 410 and other routes and will ask for FEMA help if more rain causes problems + keep the emergency center open.

Torrential rains and mountain snow boost water levels early this week, with damage already seen on highways and in fallen electric poles near Naches; Yakima County urges residents with storm-damaged property to file for tax relief on the County Assessor's website.

Construction crews are repairing a 300-foot section of US 12 near Naches after record-breaking floods washed it into the river (Apollo Inc. is working 7 days a week with a finish target of early January).

A detour is in place and part of the Yakima Greenway remains closed.

Van Giesen Bridge in West Richland reopened on December 15 after transportation officials inspected its structure following heavy rains that caused widespread flooding in the area.

Traffic remains limited to one lane each way as authorities advise drivers to use caution near the bridge.

Food lovers in Yakima have a gift guide that offers last-minute ideas — from curated dessert boxes to practical kitchen tools — to help home cooks, spice lovers, and cheese fans choose gifts that add everyday ease as the holiday season nears.

A new report finds nine in 10 parents argue with their kids over screen time and enforce rules like device limits and bedtime phone use, with most disputes lasting only minutes; the survey of 2,000 parents and children highlights growing challenges in managing digital habits.