Red Flag Warning For Tampa Bay, Nearby Areas: National Weather Service

TAMPA BAY AREA — The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Area - Ruskin has issued a Red Flag Warning (Fire Weather Watch) which is in effect from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. this evening.

Affected Areas Include

• Pinellas
• Polk
• Hillsborough
• Manatee
• Sarasota
• Hardee
• Highlands
• DeSoto
• Charlotte
• Lee

Tuesday's weather conditions mean there is a high possibility for fires to burn out of control and spread rapidly, according to NWS.

North winds sustained at 15 mph with gusts to 25 mph, and humidity for Florida is low 25-35 percent, NWS reported.

"A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior," NWS said on its website.

NWS suggests holding off on any outdoor burning during the time span of this Red Flag Warning.

Fire Prevention Tips During Red Flag Warning, Provided By NWS

If you are allowed to burn in your area, all burn barrels must be covered with a weighted metal cover, with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

-Do not throw cigarettes or matches out of a moving vehicle. They may ignite dry grass on the side of the road and become a wildfire.

-Extinguish all outdoor fires properly. Drown fires with plenty of water and stir to make sure everything is cold to the touch. Dunk charcoal in water until cold. Do not throw live charcoal on the ground and leave it.

-Never leave a fire unattended. Sparks or embers can blow into leaves or grass, ignite a fire, and quickly spread.