An ongoing lack of rain — three weeks and counting — combined with westerly winds will present a fire danger on Thursday.
Forecasters say the brush fires could spread quickly given the expected conditions tomorrow. Residents are being asked to carefully dispose of flammable items like cigarette butts and matches — and even to keep cars off of dry grass.
More, below, from the National Weather Service.
…ELEVATED FIRE DANGER EXPECTED THURSDAY…
Elevated fire conditions are expected due to dry conditions and gusty winds. Relative humidity values around 20 to 30 percent are expected along with sustained westerly winds of 10 to 15 mph and gusts 20 to 25 mph. This will result in the rapid drying of fine fuels.
Residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution if handling open flames or equipment that creates sparks. Also, dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and other flammable items in appropriate containers. Keep vehicles off of dry grass and obey local burn bans. Most dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread fire quickly.
For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions, and wildfire prevention and education, please visit your state’s forestry or environmental protection website.
With persistent dry conditions, increasing winds behind a cold front tomorrow will result in elevated fire danger in the afternoon in evening. Be cautious with open flames and flammable materials, and if you see fire or smoke, be sure to report it! #DCwx #MDwx #VAwx #WV pic.twitter.com/Jwrs9zXOqj
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) October 23, 2024
