Fire Risk and Weather Conditions
The National Weather Service issued a “red flag warning” for enhanced fire conditions Monday across all of South Florida, and cautioned against outdoor burning.
Low relative humidity and gusty winds of up to 30 mph are making for prime wildfire conditions. Any fires that start could spread rapidly.
Causes of Fire Risk
“Extra dry conditions behind a passing cold front will bring increased fire potential today,” said the weather service on its website. Winds are likely to be highest just west of South Florida metropolitan areas. The relative humidity will be quite low — in the upper 20% range. South Florida usually has relative humidity between 55% and 81%, according to the Florida Climate Center.
Relation to Severe Weather
The strong winds Monday are indirectly related to the severe weather that struck the Midwest and South over the weekend, causing many deaths. The tornadoes were triggered ahead of the cold front, said weather service meteorologist Ana Torres-Vazquez. The front weakened before it arrived in South Florida, and the region is experiencing the influx of cold air and strong winds that whip in after a front passes through.
Drought Conditions
Most of South Florida is currently experiencing moderate to severe drought, according to the National Integrated Drought Information System.
Cool Nights Ahead
Temperature Drop
“Clear skies and lessening winds will set the stage for a cold night (by mid-March standards) across South Florida,” the weather service said. Temperature could drop as low as the upper 40s to near 50 in South Florida suburbs, and to the low to mid 50s along the coast.
Weekly Forecast
The remainder of the week will be “fairly quiet,” the weather service said, with afternoon highs on Tuesday and Wednesday in the upper 70s to lower 80s. But nights will remain chilly for March, with lows in the 50s inland and possibly reaching 60 on the coast.
Upcoming Front
Another front will descend on South Florida late in the week, possibly Thursday night through Friday morning. The front should be dry, but will keep things somewhat cool and night as the weekend begins.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the fire risk in South Florida is high due to dry conditions and strong winds. Residents are advised to exercise caution and avoid outdoor burning. The region can expect cool nights ahead, with temperatures dropping to the upper 40s to near 50 in suburbs and low to mid 50s along the coast.
FAQs
- Q: What is the current fire risk in South Florida?
A: The fire risk in South Florida is high due to dry conditions and strong winds. - Q: What is the expected temperature drop in South Florida?
A: The temperature could drop as low as the upper 40s to near 50 in South Florida suburbs, and to the low to mid 50s along the coast. - Q: Is there a forecast for another front to descend on South Florida?
A: Yes, another front is expected to descend on South Florida late in the week, possibly Thursday night through Friday morning.
Originally Published: March 17, 2025 at 1:27 PM EDT
