Washington, D.C. – A fast-moving fire could ignite and spread within minutes across the D.C. region Sunday as heat, wind, and dry air peak during the afternoon hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Baltimore/Washington, humidity levels will drop to 20 to 30 percent while southerly wind gusts reach 25 mph through 7 p.m. Temperatures climbing into the 80s are rapidly drying grasses and leaf litter across northern Virginia, central Maryland, and the eastern West Virginia panhandle.
High-risk areas include the I-95 and I-66 corridors through Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax, along with communities like Bethesda, Rockville, and Frederick. In the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge foothills, including Harrisonburg, Front Royal, and Winchester, dry fuels could allow flames to spread quickly across open land and wooded terrain.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and properly dispose of cigarettes and matches. Equipment that creates sparks, including lawn tools, should be used with caution, and vehicles should not be parked on dry grass.
Fire danger remains elevated through Sunday evening, and additional advisories could be issued if winds strengthen or humidity drops further.
