Fargo, North Dakota – Dangerous fire conditions are expected to build across southeast North Dakota and western Minnesota Saturday as powerful winds and very dry air combine to create an environment where fires could spread rapidly.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a Red Flag Warning will be in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday for Richland and Sargent counties in North Dakota along with several counties across west-central Minnesota. Southwest winds are expected to increase to 15 to 25 mph with gusts approaching 40 mph, while humidity levels could fall to around 22 percent.
Those conditions can quickly turn a small spark into a fast-moving grass fire. Areas including Fargo, Wahpeton, Wadena, Detroit Lakes, and Fergus Falls may see the most elevated fire behavior as dry vegetation and strong wind align during the afternoon.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, campfires, and equipment that could create sparks. Farmers and landowners working fields should also monitor machinery that could ignite dry grass along roadsides or ditches.
Travelers along Interstate 29 and U.S. Highway 10 should remain alert for sudden smoke or grass fires that could reduce visibility.
Critical fire conditions should ease after sunset Saturday as winds weaken and humidity gradually rises, though additional fire weather concerns could return if dry conditions persist into early next week.
