The National Weather Service is warning the public that conditions in the New York metro region, including Long Island, will be conducive to fire spread later today and potentially throughout the week.
A dry air mass will combine with increasing west and southwest winds to create those conditions late this morning into early this evening, the National Weather Service said in a special weather statement this morning.
Relative humidity is expected to decrease to 25 to 30 percent during this time, along with winds increasing to 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. These conditions could aid fire spread if ignition occurs.
An extended period of dry conditions will continue through the week, the weather service said.
There is potential to meet Red Flag criteria for elevated brush fire spread on Wednesday.
Residents should be “extremely careful” with open flames, according to the National Weather Service. Make sure smoking materials are completely extinguished before disposal of them and avoid backyard burning.
Wildfires are a particular threat in spring when critical fire conditions in the region are more likely. A small fire can spread and burn hundreds of acres of woodlands.
The survival of local journalism depends on your support.
We are a small family-owned operation. You rely on us to stay informed, and we depend on you to make our work possible. Just a few dollars can help us continue to bring this important service to our community.
Support RiverheadLOCAL today.
