Little Rock, Arkansas – Gusty winds and low humidity are increasing wildfire danger across Arkansas Tuesday afternoon, creating conditions favorable for rapid fire spread.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, southwesterly winds of 15 to 20 mph with gusts between 30 and 40 mph are expected from midday into early evening Tuesday. Minimum relative humidity values are forecast to fall between 20% and 30% across much of central, western and southern Arkansas.
Forecasters said the combination of dry air and strong winds may allow fires to ignite easily and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.
Wind gusts could reach 35 to 40 mph near Fayetteville and Harrison, around 30 to 35 mph in Little Rock, Russellville and Searcy, and 20 to 30 mph across southern Arkansas including El Dorado, Monticello and Texarkana. Relative humidity values may dip as low as 20% to 25% in parts of southern and western Arkansas.
The elevated wildfire threat includes areas along major travel corridors such as Interstate 40, Interstate 30, Interstate 49 and Interstate 55, where open fields and roadside vegetation may dry quickly.
Officials advise residents to secure trailer chains, avoid parking vehicles on dry grass, and properly discard cigarettes. Anyone who spots a wildfire should call 911 or contact the Arkansas Forestry Division at 800-468-8834.
The conditions may be especially relevant for students, outdoor workers and commuters traveling during peak afternoon hours.
