Seattle, WA – A Red Flag Warning has been issued for much of Western Washington on Tuesday, with critical fire conditions expected from the Puget Sound lowlands into the Cascades.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Seattle, the warning will be in effect from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday, September 16. Forecasters say east winds of 15 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph, combined with relative humidity as low as 25 to 30 percent, could cause any new or existing fires to spread quickly.
The warning covers the Black Hills and Southwest Interior Lowlands, the Northeast and Southeast Puget Sound Lowlands below 1,500 feet, and the west slopes of the North and Central Cascades above 1,500 feet. Communities most impacted include Enumclaw, the Cowlitz Valley, and along the I-90 and U.S. 2 corridors, where winds are expected to be strongest.
NWS officials warn that “a combination of moderate breezes, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to rapid rates of spread and down-wind spotting on existing fires.” Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and remain alert for smoke or flames.
If fires develop, forecasters note that air quality may also worsen in surrounding areas. Local fire agencies advise preparing defensible space around homes and being ready to evacuate if necessary.
This Red Flag Warning replaces the earlier Fire Weather Watch for the same areas.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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