Tri-Cities Under a Red Flag Warning? Here’s What That Means

It’s another hot day in the Tri-Cities, and we are now under a red flag warning from the National Weather Service if you are like me.

Sometimes you wonder what that truly means and how dangerous that warning could be to us here in the Columbia Basin.

Understanding Red Flag Warnings During Washington’s Wildfire Season

For me, I just know it’s hot as Hades, and I try to keep my dogs inside from the intense heat.

Why Red Flag Warnings Matter in Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland

A Red Flag Warning tells us that weather conditions are creating a high risk of wildfires starting and spreading rapidly.

READ MORE: Heat Wave: 9 Places To Cool Down In The Tri-Cities Area

A Red Flag warning is triggered by high winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation. Hot temperatures can play a role as well.

A Red Flag Warning does not mean there is an active wildfire nearby. It means conditions are ideal for a fire to start and become dangerous quickly.

We currently have multiple fires burning in our area, including Wallula, Juniper Dunes, and fires near Prosser and Benton City.

So if they do issue a Red Flag Warning, avoid outdoor burning, don’t flick a cig out the window, don’t park your rig on dry grass, and make sure you follow any restrictions in the county until they are lifted.

It can sometimes get confusing with all the warnings we get, but it’s always good to know what each of these weather warnings means so you can keep your family safe during fire season here in the Tri-Cities.