Baltimore, MD – Fire officials are warning residents across Maryland, Washington, D.C., and northern Virginia of an elevated risk for fire spread Sunday afternoon due to dry and windy conditions.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) offices in Mount Holly, NJ, and Baltimore, MD, a combination of low humidity levels between 20 and 30 percent and gusty northwesterly winds of 15 to 30 mph could lead to rapid fire spread. Fine fuels, such as dry grass and leaves, are particularly susceptible to ignition and can make wildfires difficult to control.
Areas under this advisory include Baltimore, Annapolis, Frederick, Hagerstown, Washington, D.C., and parts of northern Virginia, including Winchester, Culpeper, and Charlottesville. Fire officials strongly discourage outdoor burning during this period. Residents should properly dispose of smoking materials and other potential ignition sources to prevent accidental fires.
Local fire departments and forest management agencies urge residents to check burn restrictions and adhere to any temporary bans. If outdoor burning is necessary, take extreme caution and have water or fire suppression tools on hand.
The elevated fire risk is expected to persist through Sunday evening. Officials will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as necessary.
