La Crosse, WI – The National Weather Service in La Crosse has issued an elevated fire weather alert for Thursday afternoon across southwest Wisconsin, northeast Iowa, and southeast Minnesota. The alert cites a combination of dry air and gusty south winds that could quickly spread grass or brush fires.
According to the NWS, relative humidity values between 25% and 30%, along with winds gusting up to 35 mph, will create hazardous fire conditions through the afternoon. These conditions are particularly concerning for rural and agricultural areas where dry crops and vegetation are common.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, use caution with machinery, and report any fires to local authorities immediately. The NWS warns that even small sparks could ignite fast-moving fires under these dry and breezy conditions.
Winds are expected to diminish later this evening, reducing the fire risk overnight.
