Grand Rapids, Michigan – Warm, dry, and gusty conditions across Michigan today are sharply increasing the risk of wildfires, with officials urging residents to check local burning restrictions before lighting any outdoor fires.
According to the U.S. National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, temperatures between 72 and 77 degrees, humidity as low as 20%, and winds of 10–20 mph are combining to create “elevated wildfire danger” through Monday evening. Camping equipment, outdoor grills, smoking materials, chainsaws, and even all-terrain vehicles can easily throw sparks capable of igniting dry grasses and trees.
Counties across western and central Michigan, including Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, and Ionia, are particularly at risk. Residents are urged to avoid any open flames, delay use of power tools that produce sparks, and secure tow chains when driving to prevent accidental fires along roadways.
If you must burn outdoors, officials recommend keeping water nearby and never leaving a fire unattended. Fire restrictions are already active in several areas; residents should visit their local emergency management websites for up-to-date rules.
The elevated wildfire threat will persist until winds weaken later tonight, but additional fire weather warnings could be issued if dry conditions continue into Tuesday.
