Hot, very dry, and windy conditions will come together Wednesday to create dangerous fire weather across Spokane and much of eastern Washington.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 AM to 10 PM. Southwest winds will increase to 15–20 mph with gusts that can reach around 30 mph.
Afternoon humidity will drop into the teens, and highs will climb into the mid 90s, with a few hotter pockets.
Under these conditions, a single spark can ignite grass and brush and spread quickly.
Timing and what to expect
Late morning through early evening will be the most critical window. Winds strengthen after 11 AM, peak mid‑afternoon to early evening, then gradually ease after sunset. Even overnight, air stays very dry and any fire that starts may continue to creep and smolder.
Who’s included
Spokane metro and the Spokane area, the Palouse, the Eastern Columbia Basin, the Foothills of NE Washington, the Colville Reservation, and the Lower Palouse–Snake River zones.
Prepare today
Skip outdoor burning, campfires, and fireworks until the warning ends.Postpone spark‑producing work (mowing dry grass, welding/grinding, using chainsaws) during the windy, hottest hours.Secure towing chains; never park on or drive across tall, dry grass.Farmers and ranchers: clean chaff from hot equipment, carry water and extinguishers, and consider pausing operations during the peak wind window.At home: clear dry leaves and pine needles within 5 feet of buildings, connect garden hoses, move firewood and propane grills away from structures.Be ready to go: pack a small “go bag” (IDs, medications, chargers, water, pet supplies), review two evacuation routes, and check on neighbors who may need help.Stay informed: enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone, follow local fire and emergency management pages, and keep a battery‑powered radio handy.
Travel tips
Expect strong crosswinds on open stretches of I‑90, US‑2, US‑195, and US‑395. Do not pull off into dry grass and give room to emergency vehicles and smoke columns.
If a fire starts near you
Call 911, leave immediately if you feel threatened, and follow all evacuation instructions. Visibility in smoke can drop fast—slow down, lights on, and watch for first responders.
Loss of power?
For time of power restoration please check the Avista, Inland Power, Kootenai County Electric, and Northern Lights Electric outage maps.
Customers with Avista can report an outage by visiting MyAvista.com or by calling 800-227-9187.Inland Power and Light outages, call 877-668-8243.Kootenai County Electric, call 855-938-3508Northern Lights Electric, call 866-665-4837
Bottom line Wednesday’s combination of heat, wind, and very low humidity will support rapid fire growth. Please take simple precautions today so we can prevent new starts tomorrow.
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