PORTLAND, Ore. – The Pacific Northwest Wildfire Coordinating Group (PNWCG) is urging the public, land users, and partner agencies to exercise the highest level of caution this weekend as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) Red Flag Warning for Saturday afternoon and evening across central and eastern Washington and Oregon. This rare designation is reserved for fire-weather conditions that greatly exceed standard Red Flag criteria and pose significant danger to public safety, firefighters, and communities.
A PDS Red Flag Warning is not routine, it signals a rare, exceptionally dangerous fire-weather event requiring immediate public attention and action. The interagency fire community stresses that preventing new ignitions is the most effective way to protect communities and support firefighter safety during this high-risk period.
PNWCG is coordinating closely with federal, state, Tribal, and local partners to strengthen preparedness and ensure a rapid, unified response.
We all share responsibility for wildfire safety and awareness:
• Monitor emergency alerts and updates from your local and state authorities.
• Follow all posted land-use restrictions and fire safety regulations.
• Stay alert if you live in, work in, or travel through high-risk areas.
Wildfire conditions can change quickly. Stay informed, stay prepared, and remain vigilant.