Springfield, IL – A red flag warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today for central Illinois, particularly south of Interstate 74 and west of Interstate 57. The National Weather Service warns of an increased wildfire risk due to strong winds and low relative humidity.
According to the National Weather Service Central Illinois office, sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph, combined with humidity levels between 20% and 25%, could cause any grass or brush fires to spread rapidly. The agency advises residents to take extra precautions when using outdoor equipment, delay outdoor burning, and properly dispose of cigarettes to prevent unintentional fires.
The warning affects multiple areas, including Springfield, Decatur, Champaign, and Quincy. Officials stress that any fires that ignite under these conditions could become uncontrollable within minutes. Fire departments and emergency responders remain on high alert throughout the day.
Residents are urged to adhere to local burn bans and use extreme caution to minimize fire risks. The warning is expected to expire at 7 p.m., but officials recommend continued vigilance as dry and windy conditions persist.
For real-time updates, visit the National Weather Service website or follow local emergency management notifications.
