A red flag warning has been issued for portions of Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson Counties from 11:00 a.m. Thursday through 11:00 p.m. Friday due to what the National Weather Service says will be “abundant lightning.” That means an increased risk of new fires to start over the next couple of days.
“Thunderstorm chances will begin increasing today through Friday across the eastern mountains and Central Oregon,” NWS said. “Chances will range from 10-40% each day, with increasing chances across Central Oregon on Friday.”
Affected areas include the following fire weather zones (see map below):
- Zone 611 Deschutes National Forest (Minus Sisters Ranger District)
- Zone 640 Central Oregon Mountains
- Zone 642 Southern Blue and Strawberry Mountains
- Zone 644 Central Blue Mountains
- Zone 645 Wallowa District
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In addition, NWS says outflow winds gusting 25 to 35 mph could cause erratic fire behavior on pre-existing fires.
The National Forest Service says the risk for wildfires is above normal. Fire crews are being prepositioned to respond to “emerging incidents.”
