Pendleton, OR – Critical fire weather conditions are expected across parts of eastern Oregon and southeast Washington Wednesday, with the National Weather Service warning that breezy winds and extremely low humidity could fuel fast-moving wildfires. A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon to 9 p.m. PDT Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, affected areas include the Lower Columbia Basin, Blue Mountains, Canyon Grasslands of Wallowa County, the Yakama Alpine District, and the east slopes of Mt. Hood. Winds from the west at 15 to 25 mph will gust up to 40 mph, with humidity levels dropping to as low as 12 percent.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, secure loose items, and have evacuation plans ready. Any spark could quickly ignite and spread under these conditions. Drivers should also be cautious of roadside fires from hot vehicle parts or dragging chains.
The fire danger is expected to ease after sunset Wednesday, but warm, dry afternoons will persist into the weekend, keeping wildfire risk elevated.
Five Day Pendleton, OR Forecast:
- Wednesday: Sunny, breezy, Red Flag Warning noon–9 p.m. High 96°F, low 58°F
- Thursday: Sunny, lighter winds. High 86°F, low 59°F
- Friday: Mostly sunny. High 87°F, low 60°F
- Saturday: 40% chance of showers, partly sunny. High 82°F, low 58°F
- Sunday: Mostly sunny. High 83°F, low 56°F
