Scattered thunderstorms with frequent lightning is forecast throughout the day today and has prompted the National Weather Service to issue a red flag warning, meaning the likelihood of fires will be high in the Lower Columbia Basin.
A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures, combined with lightning strikes, will increase the danger of fire starts in the area, according to the National Weather Service.
A low-pressure system over California will spread moisture and energy across Eastern Oregon and Southeast Washington today. Thunderstorms are expected to develop during the daytime and evening hours. The storms are expected to produce frequent lightning. While some areas could receive heavy rain, there is the possibility of new fire starts and rapid fire spreading in areas that receive light rainfall.
The red flag warning is in effect until 9 p.m. this evening
