National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Elevated to Critical Fire Weather in Portions of the Central and Western U.S.; Tracking a Storm System in the Upper Great Lakes

Elevated to critical fire weather conditions will persist across the Southwest and portions of the Plains today due to gusty winds and dry conditions. Across the Upper Midwest and Upper Great Lakes, a strengthening storm system will bring strong winds and periods of snow through Monday. Ahead of this system, thunderstorms are possible on Monday across the Ohio Valley and Mid Atlantic. Read More >

Red Flag Warning

 

A Red Flag Warning means warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger.  

 -If you are allowed to burn in your area, all burn barrels must be covered with a weighted metal cover, with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

 -Do not throw cigarettes or matches out of a moving vehicle. They may ignite dry grass on the side of the road and become a wildfire.

 -Extinguish all outdoor fires properly. Drown fires with plenty of water and stir to make sure everything is cold to the touch. Dunk charcoal in water until cold. Do not throw live charcoal on the ground and leave it.

 -Never leave a fire unattended. Sparks or embers can blow into leaves or grass, ignite a fire, and quickly spread.