Burns, Oregon – Scattered thunderstorms packing dangerous lightning and gusty winds threaten to spark new wildfires across southeast Oregon through Wednesday night, putting the Burns and Vale regions under a critical Red Flag Warning.
According to the National Weather Service in Boise, lightning will continue across Fire Weather Zones 670 (Burns BLM), 672 (Southern Grasslands), and 674 (Northwestern Vale BLM) until 11 p.m. PDT Wednesday. Some thunderstorms may bring brief downpours, but areas outside storm cores remain extremely vulnerable to fast-moving fires. Gusty outflow winds could reach up to 60 mph, quickly pushing any new flames through dry grasses.
Emergency agencies urge residents near Burns, Hines, Crane, and the Southern Grasslands to avoid all outdoor burning and to have evacuation plans ready. Major roads like U.S. 20 and U.S. 395 could be affected if fires ignite. Fire danger is also elevated for ranches and rural homes surrounding the Vale BLM zone.
Anyone working outdoors should have a communication plan and be prepared to move quickly if smoke is spotted. Keep vehicles fueled, charge cell phones, and monitor local alerts. Outdoor activities that could cause sparks—like mowing or welding—should be postponed until after the warnings expire.
This is the region’s most widespread lightning event since June, with rapidly changing conditions expected. The Red Flag Warning is in effect until at least 11 p.m. Wednesday, with updates possible as storms redevelop.
