...Synopsis... Upper-level ridging across the western US will weaken as a trough deepens across the Canadian Prairies. Increasing westerly flow across the northern periphery of the ridge will bring an increase in surface winds across portions of northern California and the Great Basin with dry and breezy conditions possible.
...Northern Great Basin and Northeast California... Warm afternoon temperatures are forecast to overlap with breezy southwesterly surface winds across portions of northeastern California into northern Nevada this afternoon. Relative humidity reductions to 15-20% will overlap with sustained westerly winds around 10-15 mph to support a few hours of Elevated fire weather conditions. Fuels in this region remain critically dry, with little to no recent rainfall.
...Northern Rockies... Ascent from the trough sweeping across the northern Rockies into the northern Plains will bring widely scattered thunderstorm activity across portions of the northern Rockies this afternoon. Moisture will be shallow and limited, with precipitable water values around 0.50-0.90". This in combination with faster storm motions may lead to little in the way of wetting rainfall. However, several days of wetting rainfall have tempered fuels such that dry storms and lightning ignitions are expected to be sporadic. Several new starts have been noted across southwestern ID and eastern OR. Depending on the timing and location of the approaching shortwave trough, an isolated thunderstorm over dry fuels further south into Idaho is possible, albeit low (5-10% chance).
..Thornton.. 08/17/2026
General Precautions for Fire Weather
Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and fire warnings from official sources like [Local Fire Department, National Weather Service, etc. Have a battery-powered radio in case of power outages.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay close attention to your surroundings and be aware of any signs of fire, such as smoke or unusual fire behavior.
Be Ready to Evacuate
Prepare a "Go Bag": Have a readily accessible bag with essential items in case of evacuation, including:
Water
Non-perishable food
First-aid kit
Medications
Flashlight with extra batteries
Important documents (copies)
Clothing for all weather conditions
Cell phone and charger
Pet supplies (if applicable)
Be Prepared
Create a Wildfire Action Plan: Discuss a wildfire action plan with your family, including evacuation routes and meeting points. Practice your plan regularly.
Prepare your Home
Maintain Your Property:
Clear brush and debris around your home.
Keep lawns and vegetation trimmed.
Ensure your address is clearly visible from the street.
Inspect and maintain outdoor equipment (mowers, chainsaws, etc.) to prevent sparks.
Avoid Activities that Could Spark a Fire:
Refrain from open burning, including campfires and backyard fires.
Be extremely careful with smoking materials.
Avoid using fireworks.
Be cautious when operating machinery that could produce sparks, especially in dry grass or brush.
Ensure vehicles are in good working order, with no dragging parts that could create sparks.
If a Wildfire Threatens Your Area:
Evacuate Immediately: If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not wait until the last minute.
Follow Evacuation Routes: Follow designated evacuation routes and do not take shortcuts.
Stay Informed: Listen to official sources for updates and instructions.
If Trapped: If you cannot evacuate, seek shelter in a sturdy building away from vegetation. Close all doors and windows and stay inside until it is safe to leave.
Remember: Wildfires can spread quickly and unexpectedly. Being prepared and taking precautions can significantly reduce your risk. Your safety is your responsibility.
