Red Flag Alert: Minnesota Fire Risk Skyrockets – Gusts to 50 MPH!

Photo byNational Weather Service

Severe fire risk grips Minnesota with winds gusting to 50 mph and dangerously low humidity. Stay prepared for critical weather changes today.

Wind and Fire Threats Blanket Central and Southern Minnesota

[MINNEAPOLIS] — Issued by the National Weather Service at 2:50 AM CDT on October 17, 2024.

Critical Fire Conditions Prompt Red Flag Warning Across Minnesota

A Red Flag Warning has been issued for central and southern Minnesota through 7 PM CDT Thursday as critical fire conditions develop. The warning is triggered by an extreme combination of low humidity levels (15-25%), strong southerly winds gusting up to 45 mph, and dry fuels throughout the area. This dangerous weather pattern significantly increases the risk of fast-moving wildfires, with all outdoor burning strongly discouraged today.

Residents are advised to remain vigilant, particularly west of the Mississippi River, where weather elements converge to intensify wildfire risk.

Wind Advisory Brings High Winds to Yellow Medicine, Redwood, and Brown Counties

Alongside the fire risk, a Wind Advisory is in effect for Yellow Medicine, Redwood, and Brown Counties. The far western regions of these counties are expected to experience southerly wind gusts reaching 50 mph, compounding the challenges for fire management. Wind speeds of 20 to 30 mph across much of Minnesota will persist until the evening, making fire suppression efforts difficult.

Although western Wisconsin won’t see wind speeds as strong, low humidity and dry vegetation still pose a heightened fire threat across the region.

Elevated Fire Risk to Linger Through Friday, Relief Expected This Weekend

While fire conditions remain a concern through Friday, a shift toward moister air and lighter winds over the weekend should help reduce fire risks. However, officials caution that the extremely dry vegetation means conditions could escalate again without notice.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast - Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by the National Weather Service. Please look for updates to this report through your local news channels or NOAA All Hazards radio. Stay informed with local developments through ThumbWind Publications for more weather updates.

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