On Wednesday at 8:08 p.m. the National Weather Service released a red flag warning valid for Thursday between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. The warning is for Northern Jasper, Northern Newton, Southern Jasper, Southern Newton, Upper Jefferson, Northern Orange, Lower Jefferson and Southern Orange as well as Tyler and Hardin counties.
The NWS states that the warning was issued for critical fire weather conditions. Expect winds to be northwest 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph and relative humidity as low as 15 percent.
“Very dry air moving into the area on gusty winds behind a cold front will produce relative humidity values around 15% along with wind gusts of up to 25 MPH Thursday afternoon. These conditions will favor the rapid expansion of fires. Refrain from burning while these conditions are present,” according to the NWS. “Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.”
What does a red flag warning indicate?
A red flag warning implies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently taking place or will occur shortly, according to the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire to spread rapidly.
What should you do under a red flag warning?
During a red flag warning, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution and be prepared to take immediate action in case a fire starts. The NWS offers these steps you can take to lower the risk of fires igniting and ensure your safety:
1. Secure burn barrels:
If burning is permitted in your area, ensure that all burn barrels have a weighted metal cover, complete with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.
2. Mindful handling of smoking materials:
Never discard lit cigarette butts outside, and avoid tossing cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle. These seemingly small actions can lead to dry grass ignition, potentially sparking a wildfire.
3. Prudent fire extinguishing practices:
To prevent inadvertent fires, diligently douse all outdoor fires. Quench them with a copious deluge of water and stir to guarantee complete cooling. Submerge charcoal until it’s thoroughly bereft of residual heat. Never depart from live charcoal unattended.
4. Never leave fires unattended:
Avoid abandoning any fire without supervision. Even minor sparks or drifting embers can incite nearby foliage or grass, setting off a rapidly spreading fire.
Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in mitigating the risk of wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay well-informed, and act responsibly to safeguard lives and property.
Source: The National Weather Service
