Western Columbia Basin placed under a red flag warning Saturday - enhanced fire threat

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On Friday at 11:03 a.m. the NWS Spokane WA released a red flag warning valid for Saturday between noon and 11 p.m. for Western Columbia Basin.

"A weak wave moving into southern British Columbia Saturday will bring breezy southerly winds and a drying airmass to central Washington. Winds on the Waterville Plateau and the western Columbia Basin will shift northwesterly in the evening. Winds will remain breezy overnight into Sunday with fair to poor humidity recoveries. The National Weather Service in Spokane has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from noon to 11 p.m. Saturday. Affected Area: Western Columbia Basin (Zone 707). Winds: Southwest 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph in the afternoon. Winds will shift northwesterly in the evening hours. Relative Humidities: 13 to 23%. Impacts: Rapid fire spread is likely with any new or ongoing fires," explains the NWS.

This warning is in effect until Saturday at 11 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 are the recommended measures to take 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. Bolster burn barrel safety:

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:

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. 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 10, 2026 at 11:07 AM.