Spokane, Washington – Dry air, gusty winds, and scorching June heat are combining to elevate wildfire danger across Central and Eastern Washington, where a Red Flag Warning remains in effect through 8 p.m. Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, winds up to 30–35 mph and humidity levels as low as 8% will create critical fire weather conditions in the Western Columbia Basin (Zone 707), the Waterville Plateau (Zone 706), and the Foothills of the Central Cascades (Zone 705), including Eastern Chelan and Douglas counties.
The hottest zones will see highs in the upper 80s and 90s, especially near Wenatchee, Moses Lake, and Ephrata. Southwest winds through Cascade gaps may drive rapid fire spread if ignition occurs. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and residents are urged to avoid using equipment that may spark.
Drivers along US-2 and SR-28 should be alert for reduced visibility due to blowing dust or smoke. Local emergency management advises preparing go-bags, reviewing evacuation routes, and avoiding open flames or grilling outdoors.
The Red Flag Warning is set to expire at 8 p.m. Wednesday, but officials caution that more advisories could follow if dry and windy conditions persist into the weekend.
