A Red Flag Warning is in effect for sections of Spokane and Central Washington as hot, dry, and windy weather will produce deadly wildfire conditions. The National Weather Service in Spokane said the alert is in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Thursday, with areas across eastern and central regions of the state facing an enhanced chance of fast-moving flames.
The warning comes as the summer fire season begins with a sense of tension. Dry foliage, low humidity, and high winds can allow even a little spark to develop rapidly. Residents are asked not to perform any outdoor activity that could spark a fire and to stay aware of local emergency announcements.
Spokane Area, Central Washington Under Red Flag Warning
The Red Flag Warning is for the Colville Reservation, Okanogan Valley, Central Washington Cascade foothills, Waterville Plateau, Western Columbia Basin, Eastern Columbia Basin, Palouse-Spokane area, and the Lower Palouse-Snake River zone.
Southwest winds are forecast between 10 and 20 mph with gusts to as high as 30 mph. In spots, relative humidity may drop as low as 12 percent. These circumstances dry out grass, brush, and forest fuels, making them easier to ignite.
Worry Over Warming, Windy, and Dry Conditions
The wildfire threat in the area comes in part from warm weather. Heat, along with low moisture levels and high winds, makes things considerably worse for fire workers.
Wind can drive fire into new locations and can blow flaming embers over highways or fire lines to start spot fires far ahead of the central fire. Dry grasslands and brush-covered places are particularly susceptible as fires can spread swiftly through light fuels.
Areas Covered by Weather Alert
The warning encompasses a number of significant fire weather zones in central and eastern Washington. They range from open farmland and river basins to hillsides and forested country, including the Okanogan Valley, Colville Reservation, and the Central Washington Cascade foothills. The alert also includes the Waterville Plateau and Western Columbia Basin.
Residents Asked to Help Prevent New Fires
Officials are warning locals to stay clear of anything that could spark. Avoid outdoor burning and observe local fire restrictions carefully. Do not use any equipment that will cause heat or sparks near dry grass or shrubs.
Drivers should also be careful not to park vehicles on dry vegetation, because hot exhaust systems can ignite grass. Never discard cigarettes from automobiles or leave outdoor fires unattended.
Homeowners can lessen their danger by raking dry leaves, grass, and other combustible items away from houses, sheds, and decks. Clearing access roads also contributes to speedier emergency personnel response in the event of a fire in the vicinity.
Fire Danger Could Change Rapidly
However, weather can change quickly. Residents should check official forecasts throughout the day. A Red Flag Warning does not indicate that there is a fire burning, but that the atmosphere is very conducive to rapid fire growth.
With the forecast calling for dry and windy weather, prevention continues to be the best defense. Preventing a single spark can help protect homes, communities, and firefighters across Spokane and Central Washington.
