Memphis, TN – A Red Flag Warning is in effect until 7 p.m. CDT Wednesday for Northeast Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel as dangerous fire weather conditions develop.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, sustained southerly winds over 25 mph, with gusts reaching 50 mph, will combine with low humidity and dry vegetation to create extreme fire risks. Relative humidity levels could drop as low as 20%, while fuel moisture remains at or below 10%.
These conditions significantly increase the potential for wildfires to spread rapidly. Officials strongly discourage outdoor burning and urge residents to take precautions against accidental fire ignition.
The warning covers multiple counties, including St. Francis, Lee, Phillips, Clay, Greene, Craighead, Poinsett, Mississippi, Cross, Crittenden, Dunklin, and Pemiscot.
Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor objects, avoid open flames, and report any signs of fire immediately to authorities. Strong winds may also cause minor damage to trees and power lines.
Fire danger is expected to ease after sunset as winds weaken and humidity levels rise. However, dry conditions persist, requiring continued caution in the coming days.
