Pendleton, Ore. – Dry grass bends in the afternoon breeze as eastern Oregon heads into another day of elevated wildfire danger. Warm temperatures, gusty winds and very low humidity are combining to create conditions where even a small spark could spread quickly across the Lower Columbia Basin.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 10 p.m. for the Lower Columbia Basin of Oregon. West winds of 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, combined with relative humidity dropping as low as 15 percent, will create critical fire weather conditions.
Pendleton will warm to around 93 degrees today after a morning low near 54 degrees. Patchy smoke may linger early before skies become mostly sunny. Winds increase through the afternoon, with gusts reaching 21 mph around the city. High temperatures remain in the lower to middle 90s through Monday before climbing to 99 degrees Tuesday, extending the hot and dry pattern.
Drivers along Interstate 84, U.S. Highway 30 and Highway 11 should remain alert for reduced visibility where localized smoke develops near any wildfire activity. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and even routine equipment that produces sparks should be used cautiously. Secure trailer chains, avoid parking vehicles over dry grass and properly extinguish cigarettes.
The National Weather Service warns that any fire that starts today could spread rapidly under these weather conditions. Residents should stay informed of any new fire restrictions or emergency notifications, especially if spending time outdoors or recreating near grasslands.
Conditions become less critical after the warning expires, but the overall weather pattern remains warm and dry. A slight chance of showers doesn’t arrive until the middle of next week, offering little immediate relief from ongoing fire concerns.
Five-Day Forecast for Pendleton, Oregon
- Today: Sunny after early patchy smoke. High 93°F | Low 55°F
- Sunday: Increasing clouds. High 93°F | Low 58°F
- Monday: Partly sunny. High 94°F | Low 61°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny and hot. High 99°F | Low 64°F
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny and hot. High 99°F | Low 63°F (Slight chance of showers Wednesday night.)
