Charlottesville, VA – A large portion of western and central Virginia, along with parts of the eastern West Virginia panhandle, faces an increased fire danger on Saturday due to dry air and gusty winds.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore and Washington, the alert covers areas including the Shenandoah Valley, northern and central Virginia Blue Ridge, and counties west of Highway 15. Between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, conditions will favor the rapid spread of wildfires. Winds are expected to blow from the west at 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph. Relative humidity could dip as low as 20%, and 10-hour fuel moisture levels will range from 8% to 12%.
Cities and towns at risk include Charlottesville, Harrisonburg, Winchester, Staunton, and Front Royal in Virginia, as well as Martinsburg and Shepherdstown in West Virginia.
Authorities urge residents to check with local fire departments or permitting agencies before conducting any outdoor burning. If burning is allowed, extreme caution should be used. Fires may ignite and spread quickly under these dry and windy conditions.
The elevated threat highlights ongoing regional challenges with spring fire weather, especially following prolonged dry periods.
