The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning Tuesday for regions of the state that includes Benton County and Philomath. The warning is in effect until 6 p.m. Wednesday.
In addition, the Oregon Department of Forestry increased fire risk conditions to “high.”
Highs are expected to reach the mid-90s Tuesday with wind gusts up to 20 mph and low relative humidity.
The NWS also issued a heat advisory for south Willamette Valley, which includes the Philomath vicinity, to be in effect from 10 a.m. Tuesday to 11 p.m. Wednesday.
“Please use extreme caution if you choose to recreate outdoors over the next 48 hours,” Philomath Fire & Rescue Deputy Chief Rich Saalsaa said. “We recommend holding off on all outside fires, and if windy, to also delay fireworks in areas where the sparks cannot be contained.”
Red flag warnings are issued when the potential for high fire danger and extreme fire behavior exists. Wind and low relative humidity are factored into the decision.
For those with questions, call 211, the local fire department or the Oregon Department of Forestry.