Updated at 9:40 a.m. — The earlier watch has been upgraded to a Red Flag Warning. From the National Weather Service:
…RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 8 PM EDT THIS EVENING FOR GUSTY WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR VIRGINIA, SOUTHERN MARYLAND, AND EASTERN WEST VIRGINIA PANHANDLE…
The National Weather Service in Baltimore MD/Washington has issued a Red Flag Warning for gusty winds and low humidity, which is in effect from noon today to 8 PM EDT this evening.
* WINDS…West 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 to 45 mph.
* RELATIVE HUMIDITY…As low as 18 percent.
* IMPACTS…Critical fire weather conditions are expected through this evening. All outdoor burning is discouraged, as fires could rapidly spread and become uncontrollable.
* FUEL MOISTURE…Dropping to around 7 or 8 percent.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect for most areas south of I-68/I-70 from noon until 8PM this evening. A Red Flag Warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, & strong winds are expected to produce an increased risk of fire danger. For more, visit: https://t.co/5RyZgpfrqr. pic.twitter.com/bliRAqJlwv
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) April 18, 2023
Earlier: Arlington County, along with much of the D.C. area, will be under a Fire Weather Watch tomorrow.
Small brush fires are not uncommon in Arlington, though at no point in recent history has one threatened a home, as happened in D.C. last month.
Forecasters say Tuesday’s weather will be windy with low humidity — ideal for the spread of brush fires.
A Fire Weather Watch has been issued for a majority of the region Tuesday afternoon & evening. West winds gusting 30 to 40 mph combined with low minimum RH values will yield elevated fire weather concerns. Please avoid any burning during this time. #MDwx #VAwx #WVwx #DCwx pic.twitter.com/3bu0C5UzL6
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) April 17, 2023
