Pendleton, OR – This weekend, Oregon is set to experience a volatile mix of severe weather conditions that pose significant risks for wildfires and flash flooding. Starting Saturday afternoon, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Pendleton has issued alerts for thunderstorms capable of producing frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, erratic winds, and dangerous outflow gusts. These conditions are expected to impact the Lower Columbia Basin and Kittitas Valley fire zones, elevating the potential for new fire starts and the rapid spread of existing fires.
According to the NWS, the storms are also expected to bring heavy rainfall across the region, heightening the risk of flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas, urbanized zones, and recent wildfire burn scars. A Flash Flood Watch has been issued through Saturday night, with debris flows possible along the Eastern Washington Cascade Crest.
Temperatures will also contribute to the dangerous conditions, with a high of 97°F expected on Saturday, followed by a slight cooldown to the mid-80s by Sunday and Monday. Residents are urged to report any new fires to law enforcement, seek shelter during thunderstorms, and avoid outdoor burning. Stay tuned to local weather updates for the latest information on these developing threats.
