Red Flag Warning: Fire Danger Remains High

Ongoing low humidity and gusting winds have prompted the National Weather Service to issue another Red Flag Warning for 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. today, Saturday, April 7, and a Fire Weather Watch from Sunday morning through Sunday evening.

“A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. A combination of strong winds and low relative humidity will create explosive fire growth potential,” according to the weather service.

“A Fire Weather Watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur.”

A Red Flag Warning was in effect yesterday (Friday, April 6) when about 400 acres of forest burned near the Atlantic City Expressway.

The following is the text of the weather service advisory issued this morning:

The National Weather Service in Mount Holly maintains the Red Flag Warning for today which is in effect from 10 a.m. this morning to 8 p.m. EDT this evening. The National Weather Service in Mount Holly also has issued a Fire Weather Watch for Sunday, which is in effect from Sunday morning through Sunday evening. 

Affected Area: Eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Winds: Northwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. 

Relative Humidity: 20 to 25 percent. 

Timing: The peak winds and lowest relative humidity levels are expected late morning through early evening both Saturday and Sunday.

Impacts: The fire danger should be elevated due to the gusty winds and dry conditions.

As a result: The potential exists for rapid spread if uncontrolled fires develop or even for prescribed burns to get out of control. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

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 and low relative humidity will create explosive fire growth potential. 

A Fire Weather Watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur. Listen for later forecasts and possible Red Flag Warnings.

For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions and wildfire prevention and education, please visit your state forestry or environmental protection website.