Caldwell, Ohio – Dry grass and gusty winds could spark fast-moving fires across eastern Ohio before sunset Sunday, with conditions primed for flames to spread in minutes if ignited.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, relative humidity will drop to around 25 percent while wind gusts reach 15 to 20 mph across Noble and Monroe counties through 6 p.m. Sunday. That combination significantly increases the risk of outdoor fires getting out of control.
Communities including Caldwell and Woodsfield sit in the highest concern zone, where dead leaves, dry grass, and tree litter can ignite quickly. Even a single spark from equipment, a discarded cigarette, or a vehicle parked on dry grass could trigger a fire that spreads across fields or into wooded areas.
Ohio law already prohibits open burning between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. through May 31, and officials stress strict compliance today. Residents should secure trailer chains, avoid using machinery that produces sparks, and properly dispose of smoking materials.
The elevated risk will ease after sunset as humidity recovers, but additional advisories could be issued if dry conditions persist into early week.
