National Weather Service Warns of Fire Weather Danger in the Region

The National Weather Service in Chicago Hazardous Weather Outlook says gusty winds out of the south-southwest combined with the very warm and dry conditions “will create favorable conditions for rapidly spreading brush and grass fires.” A Red Flag Warning was issued for the listening area in effect from early in the afternoon through this evening Tuesday, October 29, 2024. Winds will be southerly around 25 mph with gusts as high as 40 mph with relative humidity as low as 29 percent. Officials say any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly and outdoor burning is not recommended.  “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. Strongly consider postponing any outdoor burning and use extreme caution when disposing of smoking materials,” the National Weather Service Chicago said in the Fire Weather Message. Here’s a link to the Chicago National Weather Service website for updates.