Devils Lake, North Dakota – Dry air and gusty south winds are creating near-critical fire weather conditions across the Devils Lake region today, prompting officials to warn residents against outdoor burning.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, relative humidity is expected to drop to between 20 and 25 percent, while south winds could reach 15 to 25 mph. This combination of low humidity and breezy conditions significantly increases the risk of wildfires. The alert also extends into parts of northwest Minnesota, where similar humidity levels persist despite lighter winds.
Counties under heightened alert include Ramsey, Benson, and portions of Towner and Cavalier in North Dakota, along with Kittson and Marshall counties in Minnesota. Red Flag Warnings are in effect just west of Devils Lake, with particularly dangerous conditions near Cando and Langdon.
Officials urge residents to avoid any activities that could spark a fire, including campfires, burning debris, and the use of machinery that may generate sparks. Check with your local county for burn bans, and consider postponing any outdoor fire-related work until conditions improve.
Fire weather concerns are expected to ease overnight as humidity levels rise and winds diminish, but alerts may continue if dry conditions persist into Friday.
