BANGOR, Maine – A combination of very dry air and gusty southwest winds is raising the risk of rapid wildfire spread across much of Maine today, prompting fire safety alerts from the National Weather Service. The warning covers areas from Aroostook County to York County, with officials urging residents to delay any open burning and to use extreme caution outdoors.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Caribou and Gray, relative humidity levels are expected to fall to between 25 and 35 percent this afternoon as southwest winds of 10 to 15 mph gust up to 25 mph. These conditions, combined with an abundance of dry grass and leaves, could cause even small sparks to spread quickly. The greatest risk lies in far northern Maine, including Presque Isle and Caribou, where stronger gusts are likely through early evening.
State forestry officials and local fire departments are asking residents to check daily burn permit restrictions and to completely extinguish any campfires before leaving. With several weeks of dry fall foliage accumulation, fire crews warn that even lawn debris burns could escape containment. Winds are expected to ease after sunset as humidity levels rise, reducing fire danger overnight.
Drivers along I-95 and outdoor workers should remain alert for localized smoke or small brush fires this afternoon. Officials recommend avoiding open flames, securing trailer chains to prevent sparks, and reporting any signs of smoke immediately to local authorities.
