Red Flag Warning Issued For Montgomery County

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — Authorities have just issued a "red flag warning" for the D.C. area and Montgomery County, meaning we are at a heightened risk of out-of-control wildfires.

The National Weather Service issued the warning, which stretches from noon until 8 p.m. on Thursday.

"A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly," the notice states. "A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior."

Some of the factors include dry conditions with low humidity (meaning dry air), low fuel moisture (meaning dry vegetation), and windy conditions (meaning the fire can spread rapidly) with gusts up to 35 miles per hour.

As a result, Montgomery County residents are advised to avoid burning anything outside, and to dispose of cigarettes properly. If you see a fire, alert the authorities immediately.

Photos via Pete Piringer