Spokane, Wash. – Fire danger will sharply increase across central and eastern Washington beginning Saturday afternoon as a Red Flag Warning goes into effect. Thunderstorms combined with gusty outflow winds could ignite new wildfires and rapidly spread existing flames.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, the warning covers the central Cascades, Cascade foothills, Waterville Plateau, and the western Columbia Basin from 4 p.m. Saturday through 3 a.m. Sunday. Forecasters said lightning strikes paired with 30–40 mph wind gusts could quickly overwhelm dry fuels on the ground.
Cities at highest risk include Wenatchee, Moses Lake, and Ellensburg, with conditions spreading east toward Spokane and into north Idaho overnight. While showers are possible elsewhere in the region, the chance of rainfall is only 15–20%, meaning most areas will remain dry enough for fires to spark.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains, and fully extinguish campfires. Officials also advise against yardwork involving machinery that could create sparks.
The threat peaks Saturday evening into the early overnight hours before conditions ease Sunday morning. Additional fire weather alerts could be issued if thunderstorms redevelop early next week.
