Oregon Red Flag Warnings Raise Fire Risk as 40 MPH Gusts Threaten Existing Wildfires

Red flag conditions identified by the National Weather Service prevail across north-central and northeast Oregon, as wildfires continue to burn, with more weather predicted that will be instrumental in sparking and growing wildfires.

The NWS warned of critical (red flag) fire conditions, including:

• Sustained winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph that could further fuel existing fires and lead to rapid growth of any new fires.
• Low humidity could lead to fire growth.
• A heat advisory is in effect for the Baker City area, where temperatures are forecast to exceed triple digits in low-elevation areas.
• A heat advisory for most of southeast Oregon.
• In southern Oregon, heat in Northern California could reach 110 degrees, although the extreme heat is unlikely to reach southern Oregon.

Officials warned residents to:

• Remain aware of poor air quality from wildfire smoke, avoid outdoor burning,
• Keep outdoor time and physical activity to a minimum where possible, and seal doors and windows to prevent smoke from entering homes.
• Be vigilant of dragging vehicle chains, which can spark brush fires that could rapidly grow in the dry, windy conditions.
• Stay hydrated.
• Follow local health and safety guidelines.