Pendleton, OR – The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for portions of Oregon from Tuesday afternoon through late Wednesday night, citing dangerous fire weather conditions fueled by wind and low humidity.
According to the National Weather Service Pendleton office, the Red Flag Warning will be in effect from noon Tuesday until 11 p.m. Wednesday for John Day Valley, Central Oregon, and the Southern Blue Mountains. Forecasters say relative humidity will drop into the low to mid teens, with sustained winds of 10 to 15 mph and gusts reaching up to 25 mph, creating the potential for rapid fire spread.
In addition, a Fire Weather Watch has been issued for Wednesday morning through Wednesday evening for all Washington fire zones and the Canyon Grassland of Wallowa County in Oregon. Winds in these areas could reach sustained speeds of 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, alongside similarly low humidity levels.
Officials warn residents to remain alert for fire growth, secure trailer chains to avoid sparks, and avoid outdoor burning. Fire crews are urging the public to follow evacuation orders immediately if issued and to stay informed through local news outlets and weather updates.
Weather risk levels are considered moderate to high, with the Red Flag Warning carrying a risk rating of 4 out of 5 and the Fire Weather Watch rated at 3 out of 5. These conditions are likely to increase the danger of new and existing fires across both Oregon and Washington zones.
Residents are urged to prepare for potentially volatile fire behavior over the next two days and take all recommended safety measures.
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