The National Weather Service this morning issued a Red Flag Warning for New Jersey.
The warning is in effect from 11 AM this morning until 10 PM this evening.
The National Weather Service issues Red Flag Warnings & Fire Weather Watches to alert fire departments of the onset, or possible onset, of critical weather and dry conditions that could lead to rapid or dramatic increases in wildfire activity.
A Red Flag Warning is issued for weather events which may result in extreme fire behavior that will occur within 24 hours. A Fire Weather Watch is issued when weather conditions could exist in the next 12-72 hours. A Red Flag Warning is the highest alert. During these times extreme caution is urged by all residents, because a simple spark can cause a major wildfire. A Fire Weather Watch is one level below a warning, but fire danger is still high.
The type of weather patterns that can cause a watch or warning include low relative humidity, strong winds, dry fuels, the possibility of dry lightning strikes, or any combination of the above.
“Please do not have any outside fires during the warning or watch period,” says Lakewood Fire Chief John Yahr. “Ensure smoking materials are discarded properly and most of all report all fires to the LFD immediately. Even if they are suspected to be out already.”
The New Jersey Forest Fire Service has implemented Stage 3 Campfire Restrictions for all coverage areas throughout the State of New Jersey due to the issuance of a Red Flag Warning by the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS).
Stage 3 Campfire Fire Restrictions:
????????All fires in wooded areas will be prohibited unless contained in an elevated stove using only propane, natural gas, gas, or electricity.
????????No charcoal fires are allowed.
Red Flag Warning:
???? Critical fire weather conditions expected with northwest winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph and relative humidity as low as 17%. Increased risk for rapid wildfire growth and spread.