Red flag warning issued for Eastern Washington for Tuesday - enhanced fire threat

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A red flag warning was issued by the NWS Spokane WA on Monday at 10:02 a.m. valid for Tuesday between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m. The warning is for Okanogan Valley, Methow Valley, Central Washington Cascade Foothills, Waterville Plateau, Western Columbia Basin, Eastern Columbia Basin / Palouse / Spokane area and Lower Palouse / Snake River.

"The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Tuesday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect. Affected Area: Okanogan Valley (Zone 703), Methow Valley (Zone 704), Foothills of Central Washington Cascades (Zone 705), Waterville Plateau (Zone 706), Western Columbia Basin (Zone 707), Eastern Columbia Basin -Palouse -Spokane Area (Zone 708) and Lower Palouse -Snake River (Zone 709). Winds: West 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. Relative Humidities: 12 to 23%. Impacts: Rapid fire spread is likely with any new or ongoing fires," says the NWS.

This warning is in effect until Tuesday at 11 p.m.

What does a red flag warning mean?

A red flag warning implies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently taking place or will occur shortly, according to the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire to spread rapidly.

What should you do under a red flag warning?

A red flag warning demands vigilance and immediate readiness to respond to potential fires. The NWS provides these vital guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety:

1. Secure burn barrels:

In areas where controlled burning is sanctioned, make certain that burn barrels sport a weighty metal cover, equipped with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Responsible disposal of smoking materials:

Never discard lit cigarette butts outside, and avoid tossing cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle. These seemingly small actions can lead to dry grass ignition, potentially sparking a wildfire.

3. Properly extinguish outdoor fires:

To prevent inadvertent fires, diligently douse all outdoor fires. Quench them with a copious deluge of water and stir to guarantee complete cooling. Submerge charcoal until it's thoroughly bereft of residual heat. Never depart from live charcoal unattended.

4. Never leave fires unattended:

Refrain from leaving any fire unattended. Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand.

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in mitigating the risk of wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay well-informed, and act responsibly to safeguard lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published June 15, 2026 at 10:06 AM.