National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Extreme Fire Weather Concerns for the Western U.S.; Severe Weather and Flooding Threats for the Central U.S.

Extremely critical fire weather conditions are expected to develop across the Great Basin and Southwest today, and exceptionally dry and windy conditions will promote rapid wildfire spread through the weekend. Scattered severe thunderstorms and heavy rain are possible across parts of the Ozark Plateau into lower Ohio Valley and parts of the northern Rockies into adjacent Great Plains. Read More >

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Last Map Update: Fri, Jun 26, 2026 at 1:30:16 pm PDT

Exercise extra caution this weekend, as windy conditions and significant fire risk are on tap. 🔴 A Red Flag Warning is in effect for eastern Kern County and southern Tulare County from Friday morning through Saturday night. Dry air and strong winds mean any fire that starts will spread fast. Obey all burn bans and firework ordinances. ⚠️ Driving a high-profile vehicle? Use extreme caution on exposed roads. 🌊 Boaters: dangerous waves are expected on area lakes. Take strong precautions. Secure loose objects and know before you go. weather.gov/hanford Twitter/X
A disturbance expected to cross the Central California Interior will usher in cooler temperatures and strong winds this weekend. While this disturbance will lack moisture, the combination of dry air and strong winds will raise Fire Weather concerns across the windy-prone areas of Eastern Kern County. It will also raise concerns for Lake Isabella, as recreation is expected to increase this weekend. This means that any fire that develops will likely spread rapidly. Avoid outdoor burning later this week over the areas of concern and follow local regulations regarding fireworks.
If planning on heading out onto the water for some recreational boating or swimming this summer, you should both know the weather forecast before you leave, as well as check on the weather while you’re out. Boating on cold water is inherently very dangerous for the unprepared. You should know some information & facts about safe boating and swimming before you go out. Even in the summer, prolonged immersion in water temperatures below 70 degrees Fahrenheit can produce hypothermia. Always carry a life jacket.

 

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