Red flag warning affecting Kittitas Valley Saturday - enhanced fire threat

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On Friday at 11:25 a.m. a red flag warning was released by the NWS Pendleton OR valid for Saturday between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. for Kittitas Valley.

The NWS states that the warning was issued for wind and low relative humidity. Residents can expect winds to be northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph and relative humidity as low as 16%.

"Low Relative Humidity and Windy conditions will create critical fire weather conditions across the Yakima Valley the Columbia Basin of Oregon, Eastern Columbia River Gorge, and the Mountains of Central Oregon," adds the NWS. "Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended."

This warning is in effect until Saturday at 8 p.m.

What does a red flag warning mean?

A red flag warning implies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently taking place or will occur shortly, according to 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 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 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. Mindful handling 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 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 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 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 June 19, 2026 at 11:28 AM.