Pendleton, Ore. – Critical fire weather conditions will take hold across central and eastern Oregon Friday afternoon, raising the risk of new and rapidly spreading wildfires.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 1 p.m. until 11 p.m. Friday for the John Day Valley, Blue Mountains, and Deschutes National Forest. Meteorologists warn that isolated to scattered thunderstorms could trigger abundant cloud-to-ground lightning, with outflow winds gusting up to 50 mph.
Counties most at risk include Grant, Union, Baker, and Deschutes, where hot, dry air will drop humidity levels near 20 percent. Officials say any fire that starts could spread quickly under these unstable conditions. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and residents are urged to have evacuation plans in place should new fires ignite.
Drivers in Bend, Redmond, and John Day could encounter sudden wind shifts Friday evening as thunderstorms develop. Lightning strikes on dry fuels remain the greatest concern, especially in remote forested areas where containment is difficult.
The fire threat is expected to ease after midnight, though additional advisories are possible into the weekend.
