CHARLESTON, West Virginia — The National Weather Service has issued a special weather statement for parts of southeastern Ohio, warning of an increased risk for wildfires today, Thursday, February 8th. This statement remains in effect until 7:00 p.m.
Contributing Factors:
- Dry vegetation: The current conditions combine dry vegetation with low relative humidity, ranging from 20 to 30 percent.This creates a highly flammable environment where fires can easily ignite and spread rapidly.
- Wind gusts: Wind gusts reaching 10 to 15 mph can further fan flames and complicate fire control efforts.
Recommendation:
Due to these elevated risks, the National Weather Service strongly advises against outdoor burning, including campfires, debris burning, and controlled burns. Even seemingly small fires can quickly escalate under these conditions and pose a significant danger to property and lives.
Community Awareness:
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious smoke or fire activity immediately to local authorities.