Red Flag Warning zones-Northwest Washington. CLICK to enlarge.
Red Flag Warning zones-Southwest Washington. CLICK to enlarge.
A shift in the weather (an area of low pressure) prompted the National Weather Service to issue a Red Flag Warning for most of western Washington for today and into tonight. The alert area includes much of southwest Washington. A combination of low humidity, breezy conditions and a prolonged dry spell make conditions ripe for wildfires to be easily sparked and grow rapidly. Today’s warning affects all but the immediate coastal areas and the western Olympics.
Lightning is not in the immediate western Washington forecast but most wildfires are, in fact, caused by people. Please be careful if driving a vehicle, tending a campfire, or using tools outdoors, regardless of where you are today.
Report forest fires at 800-562-6010. (consider programing this important number in your cell phone before you head out)
DNR also suggests that you always check to see if there are additional local restrictions on campfires before leaving home to go camping or hiking. Because campgrounds may choose to ban campfires, it’s best to check with the campground host before lighting a campfire.
Check out these links to stay informed and up to date.
- Get updates about DNR’s fire program: twitter.com/waDNR_fire
- National Weather Service office in Spokane
- InciWeb (updates about major wildfires)
- Burn Risk Map
| Follow DNR on: |  |
 |
 |
 |
 |
