Extreme Fire Danger in Tri-State Area: Red Flag Warning Issued
A red flag warning has been issued for the New York City metro area, the Hudson Valley, Catskills, Connecticut, and Long Island due to extreme fire danger on Tuesday. The fire danger remains very high elsewhere, and residents are advised to check the latest weather alerts for their neighborhood.
Drought Conditions Worsen Fire Danger
Unfortunately, there is no appreciable rain in sight in the coming weeks to alleviate the ongoing drought. Current rainfall deficits this fall stand at nearly 8 inches in most areas, making it difficult to get back to normal with just one or two-tenths of an inch of rain.
Wildfires Expected to Start Easily and Spread Quickly
With worsening drought comes wildfires. On Tuesday, and possibly later in the week, we can expect a combination of low relative humidity and gusty wind, making it easy for fires to start and spread quickly. The wind will be from the northwest, so inland fires in northern New Jersey will blow smoke over the NYC metro area and Jersey Shore.
Precautions to Prevent Fires
To help prevent fires from starting, residents are advised to:
- Not burn anything outside
- Safely dispose of cigarette butts
- Not park their car on land with dry brush
- Not use tools outdoors that can generate sparks
It doesn’t take much in our current environment to start a fire, so it’s essential to take these precautions to ensure public safety.
Conclusion
With extreme fire danger in the tri-state area, it’s crucial to take necessary precautions to prevent fires from starting. By following the tips mentioned above and staying informed about weather conditions, residents can help keep themselves and their communities safe.
FAQs
Q: What is the current fire danger level in the tri-state area?
A: The fire danger level is extreme, with a red flag warning issued for the New York City metro area, the Hudson Valley, Catskills, Connecticut, and Long Island.
Q: Why is the fire danger level so high?
A: The fire danger level is high due to the ongoing drought, with current rainfall deficits standing at nearly 8 inches in most areas.
Q: What can I do to prevent fires from starting?
A: To prevent fires from starting, residents can avoid burning anything outside, safely dispose of cigarette butts, not park their car on land with dry brush, and not use tools outdoors that can generate sparks.
Q: What should I do if I smell smoke in the air?
A: If you smell smoke in the air, it may be due to current fires burning or new ones flaring up. Stay informed about weather conditions and follow evacuation instructions if necessary.
