Melbourne, Florida – Outdoor flames could spiral out of control by late afternoon as strong northwest winds and critically dry air combine to elevate wildfire danger across northern Brevard County through midnight Sunday, then again for much of Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Melbourne, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 3 p.m. Sunday until midnight for Inland Northern Brevard and Mainland Northern Brevard. A second Red Flag Warning runs from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday. Winds will increase to around 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph Sunday, while humidity falls between 30 and 35 percent. Conditions grow even drier Monday, with humidity dropping to 20 to 25 percent and gusts reaching 20 to 25 mph.
Communities including Titusville, Port St. John and Mims face the highest fire spread risk. Dry brush along Interstate 95, State Road 46 and U.S. 1 can ignite quickly from sparks caused by equipment, vehicles or discarded cigarettes.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, delay yard debris fires and secure trailer chains to prevent roadway sparks. Fire crews remain on heightened alert through Monday evening, and additional advisories could follow if dry, breezy conditions continue.
