Red Flag warning issued for today

RITZVILLE - The National Weather Service says critical fire weather conditions will exist across most of Eastern Washington today.

The agency issued a Red Flag Warning that continues through 8 p.m.

The Northern Columbia basin can expect breezy conditions and low humidity.

"Breezy to windy conditions will continue this afternoon with a second cold front reinforcing the winds," the Red Flag Warning said. "Rapid fire spread will be possible with any new or ongoing fires" in Eastern Washington, the Palouse and Spokane areas.

Winds will be from 15 mph, gusting up to 25 mph, the weather service said. Relative humidity will be from 14%-22%.

"The combination of gusty winds and low humidity will bring the potential for rapid fire growth through fine fuels and dry grasses," the Red Flag Warning said.

Red Flag Warnings are issued when a combination of wind, low humidity and warm temperatures combine to increase the potential for extreme fire behavior."