Spokane, Washington – Hot, dry, and windy conditions are ramping up wildfire danger across eastern and central Washington through Thursday evening, with Spokane and Ellensburg seeing some of the highest risks.
According to the National Weather Service Spokane, daytime highs will soar into the 90s Thursday, humidity will drop as low as 15%, and wind gusts may reach 30 mph, especially in the Ellensburg area. The combination has triggered elevated fire weather conditions from Wenatchee and Moses Lake to Spokane and the Idaho border.
Cities including Spokane, Pullman, Lewiston, and Yakima will feel steady breezes of 10–20 mph, with peak gusts between noon and 9 p.m. Drivers along I-90, US-2, and US-97 should be alert for blowing dust and sudden wind shifts. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and residents are urged to avoid using power tools or parking on dry grass to prevent accidental ignition.
Anyone living in the Inland Northwest should keep cell phones charged and be prepared for sudden changes if new fires start. This pattern marks the most dangerous fire weather so far this summer, similar to late July events in previous years. Extra caution is advised Thursday and Friday, with continued warm, dry, and breezy conditions possible.
Fire weather warnings remain in effect through Thursday evening. Stay tuned for updated advisories as conditions evolve.
