Spokane, WA – Fire officials are warning people in Eastern and Central Washington to be extra careful this week, as conditions are expected to be very dangerous for wildfires.
A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service in Spokane, covering areas including the Okanogan Valley, Central Washington Cascades foothills, Waterville Plateau, Columbia Basin, Palouse, and the Spokane area.
This warning will remain in effect from 1 p.m. Tuesday until 8 p.m. Wednesday. During this time, the weather is expected to be hot, dry, and windy, which increases the risk of fires starting and spreading quickly. The warning applies to Fire Weather Zones 703, 705, 706, 707, 708, and 709, which cover a large part of Eastern and Central Washington.
Forecasters say that on Tuesday, wind speeds will reach 15 to 25 miles per hour, with gusts up to 30 miles per hour in some areas. These strong winds will likely increase by Tuesday evening, especially in the Cascade foothills and the Waterville Plateau.
On Wednesday, the wind will be even stronger, with steady speeds of 20 to 30 miles per hour and gusts close to 40 miles per hour.
Another major concern is the very low humidity, which helps fires spread even faster. On Tuesday, the relative humidity could drop as low as 8 percent, while on Wednesday it will range between 18 to 27 percent. When strong winds, dry air, and warm temperatures combine, it becomes extremely difficult to control any new fires that may start.
According to the National Weather Service, even a small spark or open flame could quickly turn into a large, fast-moving wildfire. This could make things very difficult for fire crews trying to keep communities safe.
People living in these regions are being asked to avoid any activities that might cause a spark. This includes burning yard waste, dragging trailer chains, or using tools that could create heat or friction. It’s also a good idea to double-check any outdoor equipment and avoid lighting campfires or using fire pits during this warning.
Officials are closely watching the situation, and updates will be posted regularly. To stay informed, residents can visit the National Weather Service Spokane website or check with local emergency services and fire departments.