Ellensburg, Wash. – Wildfire danger is spiking in central and eastern Washington as gusty winds and bone-dry air create explosive fire conditions through Tuesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday for the Kittitas Valley and the Lower Columbia Basin, including parts of the Columbia River Gorge. West winds of 15 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching 30 mph, are expected during the afternoon and evening hours—right as relative humidity dips to just 10 percent.
Communities including Ellensburg, Yakima, Richland, and Kennewick are at elevated risk. Any spark could lead to rapid fire spread in grasses and dry fuels. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and residents are urged to avoid using equipment that could generate sparks.
The warning coincides with a June heat wave that continues to dry out the region’s landscape. Fire crews remain on high alert, and officials warn that even small fires could quickly grow out of control.
The Red Flag Warning remains active until 8 p.m. Tuesday, with similar conditions possible into midweek. Stay updated with local fire agencies and avoid all non-essential outdoor burning.
