Critical Fire Weather in the High Plains; Heat Continues in the West

Critical fire weather conditions will persist in the central High Plains through Friday as gusty winds and dry conditions continue. The heat wave across the West and Southwest will continue to intensify through the week, with daily and monthly record highs expected to be broken. Read More >

Click a location below for detailed forecast.

Last Map Update: Thu, Mar 19, 2026 at 2:26:21 am PDT

Watches, Warnings & Advisories

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Red Flag Warning

Special Weather Statement

Red Flag Warning

A return to seasonable temperatures

Cold Water Hazards

Cold Water Safety

Record Highs Tied/Set March 18, 2026

The National Weather Service in Medford has issued a Red Flag Warning for strong, gusty winds and low relative humidity from 2-8 pm PDT Thursday. A Red Flag Warning is issued when we identify weather conditions that promote rapid spread of fire which may become life-threatening. This does not mean there is a fire. These conditions are either occurring now or will begin soon. It is important to have multiple ways to receive information from emergency managers or other officials. More information about building the appropriate go kits is available at https://rvem.org/Get-Ready-Rogue/Kit-Types.

An expected stable pattern is expected to bring daytime highs 10 to 20 degrees above normal across northern California and southern Oregon this week. Area valleys and basins are most likely to see the warmest temperatures. These temperatures present a Minor HeatRisk. Individuals who are extremely sensitive to heat may experience heat-related illnesses in this period. A pattern change is expected to bring more seasonable temperatures this coming weekend.

With warmer weather ahead, many will try to cool off while exploring the outdoors. Area waters can be much colder than expected, which poses a number of health risks to sensitive or unprepared individuals. A swimmer risks experiencing cold shock, physical incapacitation, and hypothermia. Please be aware of these hazards while dipping into the Pacific Ocean or area lakes and rivers.

Warm temperatures may make swimming in area water especially enticing, but swimming in cold waters poses a number of health risks. These risks can be reduced by using the proper safety equipment, limiting time in cold water, and never swimming alone.