Red flag warning affecting Eastern Washington Thursday - enhanced fire threat
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On Wednesday at 11:46 a.m. the NWS Spokane WA issued a red flag warning valid for Thursday between 1 a.m. and 11 a.m. The warning is for East Washington Central Cascades, Central Washington Cascade Foothills, Waterville Plateau and Western Columbia Basin.
"One wave of showers and thunderstorms will track south to north through central Washington Wednesday night into Thursday morning. This activity will be a mix of wet and dry thunderstorms with scattered lightning strikes. Rainfall amounts between a trace and a tenth of an inch. As this activity drifts north of Highway 2 Thursday morning, lightning activity is expected to become isolated with rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch. Thunderstorms are expected to redevelop Thursday afternoon and early evening. Coverage will be isolated to scattered. A few storms could be strong during this time with frequent lightning and hail. Gusty outflow winds and new fire starts will be a concern with any thunderstorms from Wednesday night through Thursday evening. The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a Red Flag Warning for thunderstorms, which is in effect from 1 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect. Affected Area: East Washington Central Cascades (Zone 696), Foothills of Central Washington Cascades (Zone 705), Waterville Plateau (Zone 706) and Western Columbia Basin (Zone 707). Thunderstorms: Isolated to scattered coverage. Mainly dry thunderstorms with rainfall amounts less than a tenth of an inch. Outflow Winds: Erratic outflow winds of 20 to 40 mph. Impacts: New fire starts from lightning. New fires could be impacted by gusty outflow winds," adds the NWS.
This warning is in effect until Thursday at 11 a.m.
What does a red flag warning mean?
A red flag warning signifies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently in effect or will be shortly, as stated by 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:
If burning is authorized in your vicinity, ensure that all burn barrels feature a weighted metal cover 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. 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 leave fires unattended:
Avoid abandoning any fire without supervision. Even minor sparks or drifting embers can incite nearby foliage or grass, setting off a rapidly spreading fire.
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 July 15, 2026 at 11:50 AM.