Oregon is facing a heightened risk of wildfires as the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning. The combination of dry fuel on the ground and the potential for dangerous lightning strikes is creating a dangerous situation across the region.
Red Flag Warning in Effect
The Red Flag Warning is in response to extremely dry conditions and the possibility of new fires igniting due to lightning. Authorities are urging residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution to prevent wildfires.
According to KTVZ in Bend, OR, the last days of July 2025 will be active weather days with a chance for strong storms each afternoon. Highs will be in the 90s today and again Wednesday. Today is the first of three Local Alert Days.
Recent Fire Activity
Yesterday saw 14 new fire starts, though 12 of those have already been contained. Firefighters are actively working to suppress the Boulder Fire, located 2 miles north of Juniper Butte east of Prineville, OR, and the Kiwa Fire, which is 3 miles east of Katalo Butte west of Bend, OR.
Severe Storms Possible
The Storm Prediction Center has placed the southeast portion of Oregon under a Marginal Risk for Severe Storms. This includes a small portion of southeast Deschutes County and eastern Crook Counties. Storms that develop later today may generate wind gusts near 60 mph, classifying them as severe storms.
The storms are going to be high based (the bottom of the clouds near 10k feet) so when the rain starts, it evaporates, cools and the cool air sinks and gusty winds result. Be prepared for some isolated strong straight-line winds late today in the eastern parts of the Tri-counties.
Looking Ahead
Wednesday and Thursday are expected to be even more active, with strong storms arriving in the mid-afternoon. These storms could bring brief rounds of heavy rain, gusty winds, and lightning. Temperatures are expected to drop into the 80s on Thursday.
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