...CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS EXPECTED SATURDAY, MAY 16TH...

.Warm, dry, and breezy weather on Saturday will lead to critical fire weather conditions across western and central Upper Michigan. While highs are only expected to get into the 70s to lower 80s, west to eventually northwest winds of 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph and RHs falling into the teen percents will allow for rapid fire growth and spread during the late morning to afternoon hours on Saturday. Follow all burn bans in place as weather conditions are ideal for rapid fire spread!

The National Weather Service in Marquette has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from 11 AM EDT /10 AM CDT/ to 9 PM EDT /8 PM CDT/ Saturday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect.

* AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zone 002 Ontonagon, Fire Weather Zone 004 Baraga, Fire Weather Zone 005 Marquette, Fire Weather Zone 006 Alger, Fire Weather Zone 009 Gogebic, Fire Weather Zone 010 Iron, Fire Weather Zone 011 Dickinson, Fire Weather Zone 012 Menominee, Fire Weather Zone 013 Delta, Fire Weather Zone 014 Southern Schoolcraft, Fire Weather Zone 084 Southern Houghton and Fire Weather Zone 085 Northern Schoolcraft.

* TIMING...From 11 AM EDT /10 AM CDT/ to 9 PM EDT /8 PM CDT/ Saturday.

* WINDS...Northwest 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.

* RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 19 percent.

* IMPACTS...Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures and exceptionally dry fuels will create dangerous wildland fire conditions. Campfires, outdoor grills, smoking materials, fireworks, chain saws, and all-terrain vehicles all have the potential to throw a spark and ignite a dangerous and destructive fire.

Please advise the appropriate officials or fire crews in the field of this Red Flag Warning. close