The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag warning for the Prince William County area until 8 p.m. Monday for strong gusty northwest winds and dry conditions.
A Red Flag Warning is meant to alert residents that a high fire danger exists with an increased "probability of a quickly spreading vegetation fire in the area within 24 hours."
According to the Prince William County Department of Fire & Rescue, "After drought conditions, and when humidity is very low, and especially when high or erratic winds which may include lightning are a factor, the Red Flag Warning becomes a critical statement for firefighting agencies, which often alter their staffing and equipment resources dramatically to accommodate the forecast risk."
NWS reports that humidity on Monday afternoon and evening will be 20-30 percent, with west to northwest winds from 15 to 20 mph. These factors plus dry conditions create the potential for the rapid spread of brush and wild fires.
The fire department warns that burning yard waste is not permitted due to "explosive fire growth potential." They also advise that residents take extreme care in disposing of ashes from burned materials, which should be completely extinguished before they are discarded.
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