There is increased danger of fires breaking out across large portions of Central and Southern Virginia, according to the National Weather Service.
The NWS states that a combination of relative humidity values between 15 and 25 percent and west-northwest winds at 10 mph with gusts of 15 to 20 mph will lead to an increased risk of adverse fire behavior later this morning through the afternoon.
The weather service released a special weather statement to advise locals on how to prevent igniting any fires.
While there are fewer severe wildfires across the East Coast compared to the Western U.S., the recent red flag warnings highlight shifting wildfire patterns and an expanding fire risk zone. This is mainly as a result of prolonged dry spells’ impact on traditionally less-affected regions.
What’s the advice?
Outdoor burning is discouraged, and residents and visitors should properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and other flammable items in designated containers.
Additionally, be vigilant if operating any equipment that could create sparks and keep vehicles off of dry grass. Most dry grasses, dead leaves, and other types of tree litter can easily ignite and spread fire quickly, the weather service says.
“Lastly, remember to obey local burn bans. For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions, and wildfire prevention and education, please visit your state forestry or environmental protection website at dof.virginia.gov,” the NWS states.
Multiple red flag warnings and fire weather watches were issued by the NWS for several areas along the East Coast on Sunday, including Virginia, as well as North Carolina, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
Residents of any of those states should continue to check the forecast and updates provided by the National Weather Service. Wildfires can develop rapidly, and according to some models, these fast-growing fires have increased by an estimated 25% due to human-caused climate change.
Depending on the conditions, wildfires can spread at over 30 mph. Among all environmental influences, wind is the most powerful accelerator of fire spread, capable of transforming a small fire into an uncontrollable disaster within minutes.
What also makes the wind particularly dangerous when combined with wildfires is that it can transport embers, which are small, burning particles that can ignite spot fires miles away.
