Red Flag Warnings Issued for Central Oregon (Credit: NWS Pendleton, Oregon)

Discussion:  Red Flag Warnings have been issued for much of Central Oregon, as very warm temperatures and a chance for scattered thunderstorms over the area is present. With the chance of scattered thunderstorms, the lightning strikes could cause new fire starts. Thunderstorm activity is expected over the Cascades and eastward tonight.  Although the thunderstorms will diminish tomorrow and Friday, there will be an increase in the wind speed. These gusty winds combined with lowered humidity will be a wildfire risk.  During a red flag warning, it is extremely important to heed local burn bans, properly discard any cigarettes, and avoid activities that cause open flames or sparks.  With the dry vegetation, warm temperatures, gusty winds, and low humidity it doesn’t take much to spark a wildfire! To learn more about fire weather and fire weather education, be sure to click here!
©Meteorologist Shannon Scully