Portland Fire Danger: Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds Threaten Willamette National Forest Until 11 AM Thursday

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GUSTY WINDS
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Portland, Oregon – Critical fire weather conditions threaten large parts of Oregon and southern Washington from Wednesday into Thursday, as multiple Red Flag Warnings signal the risk for fast-spreading wildfires fueled by abundant lightning and erratic winds.

According to the National Weather Service in Portland and Pendleton, Red Flag Warnings are in effect for the Northern and Southern Willamette National Forests (Zones 689 and 690), the Central and Southern Deschutes National Forest (Zones 704, 705, 700), and the Blue Mountains (Zones 697, 698, 699), as well as the East Washington South Central Cascade Mountains (Zone WA695). Warnings span from 11 a.m. Wednesday through 11 a.m. Thursday, with a 15-35% chance of thunderstorms and outflow winds gusting up to 60 mph. The most dangerous hours are expected Wednesday afternoon and evening.

Communities including Eugene, Bend, Sisters, Detroit, and John Day could see rapid fire starts where lightning strikes dry fuels. Fire agencies urge everyone to avoid outdoor burning and stay prepared for sudden road closures or evacuation alerts. Power outages and poor air quality are possible in smoke-prone valleys.

Drivers should be ready for reduced visibility and avoid backcountry roads. Residents are urged to have go-bags ready, charge devices, and check with local officials for evacuation zones. The pattern resembles other high-danger fire outbreaks in recent summers, when storms brought dozens of new ignitions in less than 24 hours.

These warnings remain in effect until at least 11 a.m. Thursday, and additional advisories are possible as more thunderstorms threaten the region through Friday.

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