Red Flag Warning

...HIGH ABUNDANT LIGHTNING RISK WITH THUNDERSTORMS TODAY... ... WINDY AND BREEZY WITH CRITICAL RH FRIDAY AND SATURDAY...

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.

Friday the upper level low will eject into the region bringing windy conditions to many of the Cascade Gaps as well as central OR. Humidities both Friday and Saturday will be critical.

* AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zones 694 Grande Ronde Valley of Oregon, 695 Eagle Cap Wilderness and 699 Western Forested Blue Mountains.

* TIMING...Until 8 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