High Winds and Dry Conditions Increase Fire Risk

(Undated) — The threat of severe weather remains in the forecast overnight tonight. However, the immediate concern is the high winds and dry conditions. According to the National Weather Service’s “Special Weather Statement,” warm and dry conditions are expected this afternoon, with minimum relative humidity values as low as 30 percent. They say these conditions, combined with dry fuels and southerly winds gusting 45-50 mph, will result in elevated fire danger this afternoon. The public is reminded to not carelessly discard cigarettes or matches, use extra caution with farm machinery, and avoid open burning. The gusty winds could also cause blowing dust in areas where the soil has recently been disturbed.