Pendleton, Oregon – A sharp drop in humidity and strong winds could turn Eastern Oregon into a tinderbox Wednesday afternoon, prompting a Red Flag Warning for parts of the Columbia Basin and Kittitas Valley from 2 to 9 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, winds will gust up to 35 mph from the west while humidity plunges to as low as 10 percent, creating dangerous fire weather conditions. The alert covers Fire Weather Zones 691 in Oregon and 691 in Washington.
Cities like Pendleton, Hermiston, and Boardman could see fast-moving fires if any sparks ignite. Any outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and residents are urged to avoid using equipment that could generate sparks.
West winds will funnel through Cascade gaps, drying fuels and increasing spread potential. Wednesday’s high near 93°F adds to the risk, with similar conditions seen during last year’s July burn ban period across Umatilla and Morrow counties.
The Red Flag Warning expires at 9 p.m., but dry and breezy conditions are expected to persist through Thursday. Additional advisories could follow if fuels remain critically dry.
🔵 5-Day Fire Weather Forecast for Pendleton, OR
- Wednesday: High 93°F, winds W 15–25 mph, gusts to 35 mph, humidity 10%, Red Flag Warning 2–9 PM
- Thursday: Sunny, high 87°F, W wind up to 25 mph
- Independence Day: 20% chance of a.m. showers, high 84°F
- Friday: Sunny, high 86°F
- Saturday: Sunny, high 86°F, low humidity continues
