High fire danger sparks red flag warnings for much of Oregon

Red flag warnings for high fire danger are in place for most of Oregon east of the Cascades.

The National Weather Service warns thunderstorms are possible over the next couple days. Widespread lightning could start new fires, and high winds could spur erratic growth for existing ones.

The Oregon State Fire Marshal’s Office is mobilizing two centrally located task forces in preparation for any fires that pop up around the state.

The warnings stretch from Central Oregon to southeastern Idaho, and from the Blue Mountains down to Northern California. They remain in effect through 11 p.m. Friday.

Areas of Central Oregon, including Deschutes County, are also under air quality alerts until further notice, due mainly to smoke coming from the Bedrock Fire burning in the Willamette National Forest.