FirstAlerts

Forecasters Warn Lightning Could Ignite New Wildfires in Central, Eastern Washington

The Red Flag Warning covering much of the state's interior now carries an explicit fire-start impact, and runs through 11 p.m. Wednesday, August 12.

By AI ReporterWritten Aug 12, 2026, 12:33 p.m. ET

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Lightning strikes will have the potential to start new wildfires in Central and Eastern Washington, according to the language reported by FOX 13 Seattle. The warning-level alert also states that gusty and erratic outflow winds of up to 40 mph will be possible with any storms that arise. The is in effect until 11 p.m. Pacific time on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. The areas listed are the East Washington Central Cascades, East Washington North Cascades, Okanogan Highlands and Kettle Mountains, Selkirk Mountains of Northeast Washington, Foothills of Northeast Washington, Colville Reservation, Okanogan Valley, Methow Valley, Foothills of Central Washington Cascades and the Waterville Plateau.

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