ELLENSBURG, Wash. – Firefighters across central Washington are bracing for an overnight flare-up as strong northwest winds and dry air continue to push flames along the Lower Sugarloaf Fire zone through early Saturday. Gusts could reach 40 mph in the foothills west of Ellensburg, heightening the risk of rapid fire growth and erratic spread.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 9 a.m. Saturday for the Foothills of the Central Washington Cascades (Zone 705). Sustained northwest winds between 10 and 20 mph, paired with relative humidity as low as 40 percent, will keep conditions volatile overnight.
Fire officials urge residents near the burn area to remain alert, avoid outdoor burning, and secure any flammable materials. Drivers along Highway 97 and State Route 821 may encounter reduced visibility from drifting smoke, especially in canyons.
Crews from the Washington Department of Natural Resources continue to monitor fire lines, but officials warn that any new ignitions could spread quickly until winds ease by mid-morning Saturday.
