Burlington, Vt. – Officials are warning residents across northern Vermont to remain on high alert today as dry air and low humidity create dangerous fire conditions. With parched vegetation and no recent rainfall, any spark could quickly turn into a fast-moving wildfire.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, a prolonged stretch of dry weather has left leaves, branches, and grasses highly combustible. A dry air mass in place this afternoon will push relative humidity to critically low levels, further increasing the risk. Winds, even if light, could help flames spread quickly across open fields and wooded areas.
Authorities urge residents to avoid any outdoor burning and to follow local burn bans. Drivers should steer clear of parking on dry grass, which can ignite from a hot exhaust. Cigarette butts and other open flames should be fully extinguished before disposal.
Fire crews remain on standby, and additional advisories could be issued if conditions persist into the weekend. The high fire danger is expected to last at least through tonight, with any rainfall relief still uncertain.
