Updated

The National Weather Service office in Medford, Oregon issued multiple Red Flag Warnings on the afternoon of August 3, beginning at 12:48 p.m. PDT. Two of the warnings extend until 9:00 p.m. PDT on August 5, while a third runs through 9:00 p.m. PDT on August 4, indicating a multi-day period of critical fire weather conditions across the region. Red Flag Warnings are issued when a combination of dry fuels, low humidity and gusty winds or thunderstorm activity creates conditions in which new fires can ignite easily and spread rapidly. The Medford forecast area covers southwestern Oregon and portions of far northern California, terrain that is heavily forested and historically prone to large summer wildfires. Residents are typically urged to avoid any outdoor burning, take care with equipment that could throw sparks, and be prepared for possible evacuation notices while the warnings remain in effect.