Red flag warning issued for Central Cascades for Tuesday - increased fire danger

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On Monday at 10:52 a.m. a red flag warning was issued by the NWS Spokane WA valid for Tuesday between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. for Central Washington Cascade Foothills.

"A dry cold front will approach Tuesday afternoon and pass through the area Tuesday night into Wednesday. Tuesday will be very warm and dry with temperatures in the 90s. Southerly winds will increase across Central WA between Moses Lake and Oroville. Late Tuesday afternoon and early evening, westerly winds will increase through the Cascade Gaps. Winds will remain breezy Tuesday night with fair to poor humidity recoveries. Gusty west to southwest winds will expand across Eastern Washington on Wednesday The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday. A Red Flag Warning has also been issued from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect. Affected Area: Foothills of Central Washington Cascades (Zone 705). Winds: Tuesday: south winds 7 to 13 mph becoming west 15 to 20 mph with gusts to 25 mph. On Wednesday, west to northwest winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph. Relative Humidities: Tuesday: 9 to 15%. Wednesday 15 to 20%. Impacts: Rapid fire spread is likely with any new or ongoing fires," states the NWS.

This warning is in effect until Tuesday at 10 p.m.

What does a red flag warning indicate?

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?

During a red flag warning, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution and be prepared to take immediate action in case a fire starts. The NWS offers these steps you can take to lower the risk of fires igniting 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. 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 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

United Robots Washington

This story was originally published July 6, 2026 at 10:56 AM.