Fire Weather Watch and Red Flag Warning Issued for Southern Oregon

The National Weather Service in Medford has placed southern Oregon under a Fire Weather Watch, covering zones 617, 621‑625 across the Cascade foothills, western slopes and the Siskiyou Mountains. The watch warns that thunderstorms expected from late Wednesday morning through evening could produce dry lightning strikes on dry fuels, raising the risk of multiple new wildfire ignitions. Outflow wind gusts of up to 45 mph may also contribute to rapid fire growth.

A Red Flag Warning later took effect for Lake, Klamath, Jackson and eastern Modoc counties, with thunderstorm chances of 25‑45 % on Wednesday afternoon and evening. Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities that could generate sparks, stay away from exposed ridges and open fields during storms, and prepare emergency kits in case evacuations become necessary.