Red flag warning issued as heat wave continues in Washington State

SPOKANE — The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for portions of central and southern Washington state as a heat wave brings above normal temperatures and creates critical fire weather conditions.

Temperatures are expected to be 7-13°F above normal through next week, with moderate to major heat risk, according to the NWS Spokane Weather Forecast Office. Dry and breezy conditions on Sunday will elevate the fire danger. Winds are forecast to be 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph, while relative humidity drops to 8 to 19%.

"Hot temperatures this weekend bring increased potential for heat-related illnesses for all, especially those without effective cooling or adequate hydration," the NWS said in a briefing Saturday.

In addition to the heat and wind, there is a 10-15% chance of thunderstorms developing along the Cascade Mountains on Wednesday, which could spark new wildfires. Existing fires in the Cascades have been active and producing smoke that has impacted air quality in the Lake Chelan Basin and Methow Valley.

High temperatures are predicted to reach the 90s to 108°F, with lows only dipping into the upper 50s to low 70s. The heat risk is expected to remain in the moderate to major category through next week.

Authorities advise residents to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses, check on vulnerable friends and neighbors, and be extremely cautious with any potential ignition sources that could start a wildfire. Detailed forecasts, smoke outlooks and air quality information can be found on the NWS Spokane website.