Spokane, Wash. – Strong winds and dry conditions are keeping fire crews on high alert in Washington’s Central Cascades, where a Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 9 a.m. Friday. Officials warn that any new or ongoing fires could spread quickly overnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, winds will continue out of the west-northwest at 10 to 15 mph across mid to upper slopes, with gusts up to 30 mph. Valleys could still see breezes of 5 to 10 mph and occasional gusts to 20 mph. Combined with overnight humidity recovery only in the 45 to 55 percent range, conditions are favorable for dangerous fire behavior.
Areas at highest risk include Wenatchee, Leavenworth, and communities along U.S. Highway 2 and Interstate 90. Fire managers advise residents to avoid outdoor burning, use caution with equipment that can spark, and be prepared to evacuate quickly if needed. Drivers are also urged to avoid pulling off into dry grass, as vehicle heat can ignite fires.
The warning will expire Friday morning, but warm and dry conditions are expected to persist through the weekend, raising the chance of additional fire weather alerts.
