Red flag warning active for Kittitas Valley and Lower Columbia Basin Thursday

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The NWS Pendleton OR released a red flag warning at 11 a.m. on Wednesday valid for Thursday between noon and 9 p.m. for Kittitas Valley and Lower Columbia Basin.

The NWS states that the warning was issued for wind and low relative humidity. Expect winds to be west 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph and relative humidity as low as 10%.

"The combination of breezy winds and low relative humidity is expected to generate weather conditions conducive to rapid fire spread for new and existing fires in the lower Columbia Basin, Yakima and Kittitas valleys, and the Warm Springs Reservation," explains the NWS. "Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended."

This warning is in effect until Thursday at 9 p.m.

What is the significance of a red flag warning?

A red flag warning indicates that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently happening or will happen soon, as per 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 steps should you follow during 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. Bolster burn barrel safety:

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. Mindful disposal of smoking materials:

Steer clear of haphazardly discarding lit cigarette butts and avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from moving vehicles. These innocuous-seeming actions can kindle dry vegetation, potentially spawning a wildfire.

3. Prudent fire extinguishing practices:

To thwart accidental fires, diligently extinguish all outdoor fires. Suffocate them with an ample deluge of water and stir to ensure complete cooling. Submerge charcoal in water until it's entirely devoid of heat. Never leave live charcoal unattended.

4. Never desert a blaze:

Avoid leaving any fire unattended. Even sparks or embers carried by the wind can ignite nearby leaves or grass, triggering a fire that spreads rapidly.

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is paramount in averting wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay impeccably informed, and assume responsibility to shield lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published June 24, 2026 at 11:03 AM.