Hartford, Conn. – Dry, gusty winds could turn a spark into a fast-moving brush fire across much of northern and eastern Connecticut Friday, prompting state officials to issue a fire safety alert through this evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Boston/Norton, low relative humidity levels between 25 and 30 percent combined with wind gusts reaching 30 mph will create an elevated risk for fire spread across Hartford, Tolland, and Windham counties until 11 p.m. Friday.
Communities including Hartford, Windsor Locks, Vernon, Putnam, and Willimantic are urged to avoid any open burning or activities that could ignite dry grasses and brush. This includes using outdoor machinery, discarding cigarettes, or lighting matches.
State fire and land management officials say recent dry conditions have left vegetation unusually vulnerable, even though overall temperatures remain mild. While this is not a Red Flag Warning, residents should take the alert seriously.
If a fire starts, it may spread quickly due to wind and dry fuels. Authorities recommend having water or extinguishers nearby and reporting any signs of fire immediately.
The elevated fire risk is expected to diminish by tonight as winds ease. More updates may be issued if dry conditions persist into the weekend.
