By SALINA POST
Red flag warnings have been issued for much of the state on Friday, including our area.
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, according to the National Weather Service.
The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a red flag warning in effect from noon to 7 p.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.
Ellsworth County
Lincoln County
Marion County
McPherson County
Saline County
Extreme grassland fire danger is forecast. Winds from the west at 20 to 25 mph with gusts of 35 to 40 mph and relative humidity as low as 15 percent are forecast.
Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and become very difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.
The National Weather Service in Hastings, Neb., has issued a red flag warning in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.
Jewell County
Mitchell County
Northwest winds turning to the north-northwest by early evening with sustained speeds of 20 to 25 mph and gusts up to 45 mph are expected. Relative humidity as low as 15 percent is forecast. The lowest relative humidity values of 15 to 20 percent are expected to develop across portions of the area along and south of a line roughly from Gothenburg, Neb., to Mankato, Kan.
Any fires that ignite may spread rapidly and exhibit extreme fire behavior. Use extreme caution if engaging in activities that could result in fire ignition.
The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a red flag warning in effect from noon to 7 p.m. Friday for the following counties in our area.
Clay County
Cloud County
Dickinson County
Ottawa County
Republic County
Winds from the west at 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph and relative humidity as low as 18 percent are forecast.