Orlando, FL – The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings across much of Florida, citing high winds and low humidity that create dangerous wildfire conditions. The warnings remain in effect until 6 p.m. Thursday for numerous counties across east-central, west-central, and north-central Florida.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Melbourne, Tampa Bay, and Jacksonville, strong northwest winds between 15 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 30 mph, will combine with relative humidity levels as low as 25 percent. These conditions significantly increase the likelihood of rapid fire spread. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.
The affected areas include inland and coastal regions of Volusia, Lake, Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Okeechobee, Indian River, Saint Lucie, Martin, Brevard, Sumter, Polk, Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Levy, Charlotte, Lee, Flagler, Putnam, and Marion counties. The Ocala National Forest is also under heightened fire risk.
Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution, avoid outdoor burning, and adhere to local fire restrictions. Authorities recommend securing outdoor equipment that may spark fires and keeping water sources available for emergency use.
The Red Flag Warning is expected to expire by 6 p.m., but officials advise continued vigilance as dry conditions persist.
