Medford, Oregon – Wildfire danger is ramping up across Northern California and Southern Oregon as scattered dry thunderstorms and wind gusts up to 45 mph spark Red Flag Warnings through 8 p.m. Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, dry lightning is expected to ignite new fires quickly across parched landscapes in Siskiyou and Modoc counties, as well as Klamath Basin and parts of Lake and Harney counties. Tuesday’s warning remains in effect through 8 p.m. for areas including Shasta Valley, Mt. Shasta, and Western Klamath National Forest, with another round expected Wednesday afternoon.
Fire Weather Zones 280, 281, 284, 285, 624, and 625 are all under alert. Storms are forecast to develop along and east of the Highway 97 corridor, with outflow winds capable of carrying flames up to 25 miles from the ignition point.
Communities in Yreka, Dorris, Klamath Falls, and Alturas are urged to follow all local burn restrictions and avoid activities that could spark flames. Emergency officials advise residents to review evacuation plans, charge devices, and sign up for county alert systems.
The Red Flag Warning highlights conditions ripe for explosive fire growth, even without an active fire present. Alerts may be extended if storms persist.
