The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a Red Flag Warning for several counties in Southern Ohio, effective from 11 AM to 10 PM EDT today. The warning comes as winds gusting between 25-30 mph combine with dry conditions, with relative humidity levels dipping below 25%, potentially as low as 15%.
Affected areas include Licking, Fairfield, Hocking, Ross, Pike, Adams, Scioto, and Lewis counties. Winds will peak at 17 mph, with gusts reaching up to 30 mph. With humidity levels so low, any fires that start are likely to spread rapidly, posing a serious risk to outdoor areas.
As thunderstorms are expected to move in later this evening, the risk of fire danger remains high. The National Weather Service advises against outdoor burning during this time to prevent potential wildfires.
Residents are urged to take precautions and stay alert to changing conditions throughout the day.
