High fire danger under hot, dry, and gusty afternoon conditions

Bend, OR (KTVZ) -

We have issued a Local Alert Weather Day due to the high fire danger this afternoon.

Smoke is beginning to clear along 97 but air quality remains unhealthy in Prineville this morning. Winds are changing once again today. Winds will blow from the northwest this afternoon which should continue to improve air quality along US97 but smoke will linger through Crook County. Air quality alerts are out but we’ll probably see some of the areas included lifted as the winds become more favorable. Winds shift further west heading into the weekend, so smoke should mostly clear for Fairwell Fest.

Strong winds, temperatures in the 90s, and critically dry air are expected today. These conditions are bringing high fire danger. A Red Flag Warning is active this afternoon in portions of Central Oregon and into the Lower Columbia Basin. Winds will gust around 25mph, but could reach near 35 for some areas.

Growth on the Cram Fire will be tempted toward the southeast today. Fire danger will remain high tomorrow, which means firefighters have a couple challenging days ahead of them.

Have a good Thursday and be safe! Always remember to practice fire safety.


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