Pendleton, Oregon – Hot, dry winds and dangerously low humidity are raising wildfire risks across the lower Columbia Basin of Oregon and Washington, with a Fire Weather Watch in effect from Wednesday morning through Wednesday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, humidity will drop into the teens and lower twenties, while sustained winds of 15–20 mph and gusts up to 35 mph are expected across Umatilla, Morrow, Benton, Franklin, and surrounding counties. These conditions mean any spark could ignite fast-moving wildfires, especially in rural and grassland areas near major roadways like I-82 and Highway 395.
Residents should avoid outdoor burning, keep a close eye on emergency alerts, and ensure trailer chains aren’t dragging on roadways. “Fires may exhibit rapid growth—pay attention to local news sources and evacuate if needed,” NWS Pendleton advised. Outdoor work and recreation should be limited, and farmers are urged to delay fieldwork involving machinery that could spark a fire.
This moderate fire risk is the latest in a series of July heat events for eastern Oregon and southern Washington, echoing similar fire weather outbreaks seen in past summers. The current Fire Weather Watch remains in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday, with more advisories possible if winds persist.
