Red Flag Warning

...HIGH ABUNDANT LIGHTNING RISK WITH THUNDERSTORMS TODAY...

The upper level low offshore will shift to the east just enough to allow for monsoonal moisture to move into the region. Instability will accompany the moisture and allow for increased chances of isolated to scattered thunderstorms across the eastern mountains. Brief heavy downpours, gusty outflow winds in excess of 45 mph, small hail, and frequent lightning will be possible. A strong to briefly severe thunderstorm cannot be ruled out this afternoon and early evening.

The National Weather Service in Pendleton has issued a Red Flag Warning for abundant lightning, which is in effect from 1 PM this afternoon to 7 PM PDT this evening.

* AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zones 692 Northern Blue Mountains of Oregon and 692 Blue Mountains of Washington.

* TIMING...From 1 PM this afternoon to 7 PM PDT this evening.

* IMPACTS...Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

* THUNDERSTORMS...Isolated to scattered dry thunderstorms Thursday after 1200.

* OUTFLOW WINDS...Gusts from 25-45 mph