Orlando, FL – A Red Flag Warning is in effect for portions of Central Florida, including Orange, Osceola, Okeechobee, Brevard, and the Treasure Coast, from 10 a.m. through 7 p.m. Friday. The National Weather Service in Melbourne issued the alert due to increased fire danger.
According to the NWS, wind gusts of 20-25 mph, relative humidity between 20-35%, and rapidly drying fuels are creating critical fire weather conditions. Residents are advised to avoid open flames or sparks, keep vehicles off dry grass, and properly discard cigarettes to prevent accidental fires.
The warning comes as cooler temperatures follow a recent cold front, bringing highs in the 60s along the coast and low 70s inland. Despite the cooler weather, dry conditions and gusty winds elevate the fire risk. Visibility reductions may also occur along I-95 and SR-44 due to smoke from an ongoing wildfire.
Additionally, a high risk of rip currents has been issued for all East Central Florida beaches. The NWS advises against entering the surf, as strong currents pose a life-threatening hazard.
Officials urge residents to stay informed and exercise caution during this period of heightened fire danger. For the latest updates, visit weather.gov/mlb.
