Medford, Oregon – Fire danger will soar Thursday as Red Flag Warnings return for southern Oregon and northern California, with lightning and gusty winds threatening rapid wildfire growth from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Communities across the Klamath Basin, Lakeview, Medford, Yreka, and the Fremont-Winema National Forest face heightened risk as scattered thunderstorms spark over critically dry fuels.
According to the National Weather Service in Medford, abundant lightning and outflow winds up to 50 mph could trigger new fire starts across fire weather zones 623, 624, 625 in Oregon and 280, 281, 284, and 285 in northern California. The greatest risk stretches across Klamath, Lake, and western Harney Counties, as well as Siskiyou and Modoc Counties in California.
Residents near Klamath Falls, Lakeview, and the Shasta Valley should prepare for sudden storm development, blowing dust, and rapidly changing fire conditions Thursday afternoon. Emergency officials urge everyone to have go kits ready, charge devices, fill gas tanks, and stay signed up for local alerts. Travelers should avoid outdoor activities and backcountry roads, as lightning outside thunderstorm cores may ignite fast-moving fires far from rain.
Lightning-driven fire outbreaks during late July are not unusual for the region, but Thursday’s setup could rival the widespread ignitions of 2021. Additional thunderstorms may follow Friday and through the weekend, keeping fire risk high.
Red Flag Warnings remain in effect Thursday from 2 p.m. until at least 8 p.m. across the region. More advisories may be issued as storms persist.
