Red flag warning for Eastern Washington for Saturday - enhanced fire threat

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At 10:27 a.m. on Friday, the NWS Spokane WA released a red flag warning valid for Saturday between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. The warning is for Colville Reservation, Okanogan Valley, Central Washington Cascade Foothills, Waterville Plateau and Western Columbia Basin.

"The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect. Affected Area: Colville Reservation (Zone 702), Okanogan Valley (Zone 703), Foothills of Central Washington Cascades (Zone 705), Waterville Plateau (Zone 706) and Western Columbia Basin (Zone 707). Winds: West 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph. Winds in zones 703 and 704 will shift northwesterly Saturday evening. Relative Humidities: 13 to 23%. Impacts: Rapid fire spread is likely with any new or ongoing fires," says the NWS.

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

What does a red flag warning indicate?

A red flag warning means that extreme fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly, according to the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire spreading rapidly.

What actions are necessary 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. Secure burn barrels:

If burning is permitted in your area, ensure that all burn barrels have a weighted metal cover, complete with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Mindful disposal of smoking materials:

Prudently discard cigarette butts and avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle. These seemingly innocuous actions can kindle dry grass, potentially triggering 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:

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 pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay informed, and act responsibly to protect lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published July 3, 2026 at 10:35 AM.