A red flag warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin at 8:25 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 11. This warning applies to Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Coastal Manatee, Coastal Sarasota, Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, Inland Manatee, Inland Sarasota, Inland Charlotte and Inland Lee counties.
The warning was issued for low humidity, breezy northerly winds, and moderate significant fire potential expected this afternoon and remains in effect until 6 p.m.
The NWS warns: “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 dry fuels can contribute to extreme fire behavior.”
Track wildfires and smoke in your areaWhat are NWS meteorologists saying?
At 8:25 a.m., the NWS issued a statement including the following information:
“CRITICALLY LOW HUMIDITY WITH GUSTY WINDS WILL RESULT IN ELEVATED FIRE DANGER, .The National Weather Service in Ruskin has issued a Fire Weather Warning for low humidity, breezy northerly winds, and moderate significant fire potential expected this afternoon. AFFECTED AREA, Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Coastal Manatee, Coastal Sarasota, Coastal Charlotte, Coastal Lee, Inland Manatee, Inland Sarasota, Inland Charlotte and Inland Lee. TIMING, Until 6 p.m. EST this evening. WINDS, North 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. RELATIVE HUMIDITY, As low as 26 percent.
IMPACTS: Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.”
What is a red flag warning from the weather service?
A Fire Weather Watch or Red Flag Warning is issued when the combination of dry fuels and weather conditions supports extreme fire danger, according to the National Weather Service. Each NWS office creates local criteria for fire weather watches and red flag warnings.
Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Lee County, Florida weather watches and warningsWhat should you do during a red flag warning and wildfire prevention tips
Forecasters advise residents under a red flag warning to take extra precautions to prevent wildfires. Follow these steps to reduce the risk of fire on your property and in your community:
Monitor local alerts
Stay updated with your local wildfire offices, fire departments and emergency management.
Check air quality forecasts: smoke from nearby wildfires can reduce visibility and cause health issues.
Prepare your home and property
Water lawns, shrubs and trees if possible.
Clear dry brush, leaves and other flammable material from around your home.
Move flammable items (firewood, propane tanks, grills) away from buildings.
Have an emergency kit ready
Include water, non-perishable food, medications, masks (for smoke), flashlights, batteries, important documents and a first-aid kit.
Keep vehicles fueled and ready in case of evacuation.
Avoid activities that could start a fire
Do not burn trash, brush, or use open flames.
Use grills or smokers only on gravel or paved surfaces.
Avoid driving over dry grass or brush.
Ensure chains or metal parts on vehicles aren’t dragging to prevent sparks.
Be cautious with cigarettes, matches and glass bottles outdoors.
Fire safety if burning is allowed
Cover burn barrels with a weighted metal lid (holes no larger than 3/4 inch).
Keep a 10-foot radius clear of flammable material around any fire.
Extinguish fires completely with water; stir to make sure everything is cold.
Never leave fires unattended.
Electrical safety
Report downed utility poles immediately to local officials or your electricity provider.
Do not approach any potentially energized lines.
Health precautions
If air quality drops, stay indoors as much as possible.
Use masks or respirators if you need to go outside.
Stay informed. Get weather alerts via text.
This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor.
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Fort Myers area under red flag warning. What is a red flag warning?