Pendleton, Ore. – Strong winds and bone-dry air could push fire danger sharply higher across eastern Oregon on Thursday, prompting a Fire Weather Watch for several regions.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, conditions will turn hazardous Thursday afternoon as west winds increase to 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching 30 mph. Relative humidity may fall as low as 15 percent, creating an environment where even small sparks can quickly grow into fast-moving wildfires.
The Fire Weather Watch covers the Kittitas Valley, the Lower Columbia Basin of Oregon, and the Warm Springs Reservation. The alert runs from Thursday afternoon through Thursday evening, when winds and low humidity are expected to peak. Officials warn that outdoor burning should be avoided.
Residents near Pendleton, Hermiston, and John Day may notice stronger afternoon winds along major highways, especially I-84, where blowing dust could reduce visibility. Fire crews across Umatilla and Morrow counties are preparing for quick ignition risks in fields and rangeland.
The weather service advises residents to secure outdoor equipment, avoid sparks from vehicles or machinery, and remain alert for changing fire conditions. The Fire Weather Watch could be upgraded to a Red Flag Warning if conditions worsen.
Five Day Forecast for Pendleton, OR
- Thursday: Sunny, high near 84. Southwest wind 10–15 mph, gusts up to 23 mph.
- Friday: Sunny, high near 74. Winds west 7 mph.
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 80. Low around 49 at night.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high near 81. Slight chance of showers late.
- Monday: Chance of showers, high near 74. Clearing by Tuesday with highs in the low 70s.
