A critical fire weather threat is looming over the Pacific Northwest, with the North Cascades and Columbia Basin facing heightened risks on Thursday. Strong downslope winds, coupled with exceptionally dry air, are set to create hazardous conditions conducive to the ignition and rapid spread of wildfires. Forecasters are warning of sustained winds ranging from 20 to 25 mph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 35 mph. These strong winds, combined with critically low humidity levels, will significantly increase the likelihood of fire starts and accelerate the spread of any existing fires.