Southern Oregon and parts of northern California are under serious wildfire threat this weekend. A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for Sunday from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m., covering Klamath and Lake counties in Oregon and Siskiyou County in California.
The warning is due to the dangerous mix of dry vegetation and scattered thunderstorms, which could spark new wildfires across the region.
Why the Red Flag Warning Was Issued
The warning was announced because of a high chance of frequent lightning and gusty, unpredictable winds during storms expected in the area. Since the landscape is extremely dry, especially in grassy and brush-covered areas, any lightning strike could quickly ignite a wildfire. Communities like Klamath Falls, Lakeview, Yreka, and Bly are especially at risk.
The weather setup makes it possible for multiple fires to start quickly and spread fast, especially in remote or forested areas where response times may be slower.
Areas and Highways at Risk
If you’re traveling through or live near U.S. Highway 97, Oregon Route 140, or California Highway 89, stay alert for sudden storm development or fire activity. Smoke, fire crews, or blocked roads may appear with little warning, so it’s best to avoid non-essential travel during the warning hours.
What Residents Should Do During the Warning
Officials are urging everyone in the affected areas to delay all outdoor activities during the Red Flag Warning. This includes camping, hiking, mowing lawns, using power tools, lighting campfires, or anything that could cause sparks.
The National Weather Service strongly advises:
“When thunder roars, go indoors.”
If you hear thunder, take shelter immediately. It means lightning is nearby and can strike even if it’s not raining.
People are also asked to avoid using grills, fire pits, or anything flammable during this time. A small spark in these dry conditions could lead to a fast-moving wildfire.
What Happens After 11 p.m.?
The current warning ends at 11 p.m. Sunday, but that doesn’t mean the risk will completely disappear. If storms continue into the evening or if new fires break out, more alerts may follow. It’s important to stay updated with local news, weather apps, or official emergency channels.
