BY BRANDON HANSEN / KCHW NEWS

Wildfire conditions across Central and Eastern Washington will remain critical through Wednesday evening, as multiple blazes continue to burn and strong winds increase the risk of rapid fire spread.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for much of Eastern Washington, in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday. The warning indicates weather conditions that could lead to extreme fire behavior, including gusty winds, dry fuels, and low humidity.

A dry cold front sweeping across the state is pushing northwest winds into Eastern Washington, with gusts up to 20 mph Tuesday and up to 30 mph Wednesday in some areas. These winds could quickly fan any new or active fires, officials warn.

While Western Washington may see some relief from cooler, drizzly weather starting Wednesday, fire danger east of the Cascades will remain high, particularly near the Idaho border and southeastern Washington. There is also a slight chance of thunderstorms in the Blue Mountains Tuesday evening, which could spark additional fires.

Conditions may calm temporarily Thursday and Friday, but another stretch of high fire risk is expected this weekend and into next week.

Active Fires Across the State

Several fires are currently burning across Washington:

• Hope Fire (Stevens County): Burning roughly 10 miles southwest of Northport, this fire grew to 2,161 acres by Tuesday evening. Level 3 “Go Now” evacuations were issued near Three Pines Youth Camp, with Level 2 warnings for surrounding areas. A Red Cross shelter has been opened at Kettle Falls Middle School, according to DNR spokesperson Ryan Rodruck.
• Bear Gulch Fire (Olympic Peninsula): This 328-acre fire near the Mount Rose Trailhead in Olympic National Forest was human-caused and is burning in steep, rugged terrain. Trailheads and recreation areas around Lake Cushman, including parts of Olympic National Park, have been closed.
• Pomas Fire (Chelan County): Located in the Upper Entiat River Valley, this lightning-caused fire has grown to 2,890 acres and remains 0% contained. A Type 1 incident management team has been assigned due to the fire’s size and complexity.
• Siegel Fire (Spokane County): Near Rosalia, this fire has burned about 700 acres but is now 93% contained. DNR officials are drawing down resources as fire behavior improves.
• Apple Acres Fire (Lake Chelan area): Covering more than 3,000 acres, this fire is 70% contained. Like the Siegel Fire, it is believed to be human-caused and is under investigation.

Fire Safety and Resources

Washington is currently at a Preparedness Level 3, meaning resources are being prioritized for in-state response as fire activity and potential remain high.

Under red flag conditions, residents are urged to:

• Avoid driving or parking on dry grass
• Postpone yard work near dry vegetation
• Make sure trailers and vehicles aren’t dragging chains that could spark a fire

To receive local emergency alerts, including evacuation notices, visit mil.wa.gov/alerts#local.

For smoke forecasts and air quality updates, check the Washington Smoke Blog at wasmoke.blogspot.com.