By SALINA POST
Strong winds are expected Sunday afternoon and evening across the entire area, and with them comes more critical fire weather conditions.
Because of that, the National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings and fire weather watches for Sunday.
Red flag warnings
A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.
The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a red flag warning in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday for the following counties in our area.
Ellsworth County
Lincoln County
Extreme grassland fire danger is forecast. Winds from the south at 30 to 40 mph, with gusts up to 60 mph, and relative humidity as low as 21 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. Sunday for the following counties in our area.
Jewell County
Mitchell County
Southwest winds at 25 to 35 mph, with gusts of 40 to 50 mph, and relative humidity as low as 15 to 25 percent are forecast.
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.
Fire weather watches
The National Weather Service in Wichita has issued a fire weather watch in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday for the following counties in our area.
Marion County
McPherson County
Saline County
Winds from the south at 25 to 35 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph, and relative humidity as low as 29 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 Topeka has issued a fire weather watch in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday for the following counties in our area.
Clay County
Cloud County
Dickinson County
Ottawa County
Republic County
Southwest winds sustained at around 30 mph with gusts of 40 to 55 mph will be possible. Additionally, afternoon humidities may fall into the 25 to 30 percent range.
Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.