Red Flag Warning Issued For NoVA Amid Dangerous Fire Conditions

VIRGINIA — Several Northern Virginia counties and cities are under a red flag warning Friday, meaning dry conditions and gusty winds are more likely to contribute to the rapid spread of fires.

According to the National Weather Service, the warning is in effect from noon to 6 p.m. for the following counties: Arlington, Clarke, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun, Prince William and Warren. The cities of Falls Church and Alexandria are also included in the warning.

Forecasters said the combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures could contribute to "extreme fire behavior" and cause any grass or brush fires to quickly spread out of control.

According to the forecast, Friday's winds are expected to reach 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.

As of Nov. 8, much of Northern Virginia was experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions, according to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Drought Monitor.

Virginians should be cautious when handling open flames and also dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and other flammable items in appropriate containers. Residents should also keep vehicles off dry grass and check with local officials about burning ordinances or restrictions in their areas.

• Related: DC Area Residents Asked To Conserve Water As Drought Continues

There is little chance of rain in the weather forecast for the coming week, with the National Weather Service predicting clear skies through until Sunday. There is a 50 percent chance of rain Sunday afternoon, increasing to an 80 percent chance of showers that night. Dry conditions return Monday and Tuesday.

From now until Nov. 30, the Department of Forestry is asking Virginians to take extra caution when engaging in fire-related activities including burning yard debris, having campfires or using backyard fire pits.

“It may surprise some to learn that the majority of wildfires are caused by people, with escaped burning debris being the biggest offender,” Department of Forestry Chief of Fire and Emergency Response John Miller said in a release. “Because these fires are accidental, this means they are also preventable."

Here are a few tips Virginians should follow when burning during fall fire season:

• Avoid having a fire on dry, windy days.
• Keep burn piles small and in flat areas, far from flammable vegetation.

• Keep a rake or shovel and a water source nearby.
• Have your phone ready to call 911 in case of emergency
• Stay with your fire until it is completely out (drown, stir, ensure it’s cool, repeat as necessary.)
• Completely soak cigarettes before disposing of them in a trash can.
• Check in with local officials in your area for local fire restrictions or burning bans, especially during fire season.

Visit the DOF’s website to learn more about the fall fire season.