Springfield, IL – Central Illinois is under an elevated fire danger warning Friday due to a combination of warm temperatures, gusty winds, and low humidity.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, the region will experience minimum relative humidity levels as low as 25 percent, with southwest winds gusting between 35 and 45 mph through 6 p.m. Friday. These conditions, paired with dry fuels like grasses, twigs, and pine needles, significantly increase the potential for uncontrolled fires.
The warning affects a wide portion of the state, including cities such as Springfield, Decatur, Champaign, Danville, and Effingham. Counties impacted include Sangamon, Macon, Vermilion, Shelby, and others across central and east-central Illinois.
Residents are urged to avoid open burning, closely monitor farm equipment, and properly dispose of cigarettes and matches. Any spark could rapidly ignite a fire under today’s conditions.
While Illinois is no stranger to dry spring days, today’s fire weather statement serves as a reminder to exercise caution as seasonal field work begins. Emergency officials will continue to monitor conditions, and residents are encouraged to report any signs of fire immediately.
