Spokane, Washington – Powerful winds and critical fire weather are expected to sweep across Okanogan Valley, Spokane, North Idaho, and much of eastern Washington between 1 p.m. and 11 p.m. Monday, threatening power outages, blowing dust, and rapid fire spread.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, a High Wind Warning is in effect for the Okanogan Valley, where sustained north winds of 30 to 40 mph and peak gusts up to 60 mph are likely. A broader Wind Advisory covers the Waterville Plateau, northern Washington, and North Idaho, with gusts up to 50 mph possible. At the same time, a Red Flag Warning blankets the region, including Chelan, Wilbur, Ritzville, Pullman, and Lewiston, due to humidity dropping to 15-25% and temperatures soaring into the upper 80s to mid-90s.
Residents should prepare for downed trees, power outages, difficult driving for high-profile vehicles, and dangerous lake conditions. Blowing dust is likely across the Waterville Plateau and the western Columbia Basin, reducing visibility on major routes such as US-2, US-97, and I-90. Fire danger is critical—campfires must be fully extinguished, cigarettes properly disposed of, and all burn bans followed.
The worst impacts are expected from late afternoon into the evening. Emergency managers urge everyone to avoid unnecessary travel, secure outdoor objects, and stay alert for additional warnings through Monday night.
