Burlington, Vt. – Fire danger is expected to spike across Vermont and northern New York on Thursday as strong southerly winds combine with unusually dry ground conditions. The National Weather Service warns that any fires that start could spread rapidly and become difficult to contain.
According to the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, fine fuels remain very dry, and portions of the region are already in moderate drought. Winds will increase to 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph common and localized gusts as high as 35 mph in the Champlain Valley and northern Adirondacks. At the same time, relative humidity will drop to between 25 and 35 percent, creating near-critical fire weather conditions.
Communities most at risk include Burlington, St. Albans, Montpelier, Rutland, Plattsburgh, and Malone. Officials advise avoiding outdoor burning, securing equipment that could spark, and reporting any smoke or fire immediately.
Relief is expected later Thursday as wetting rainfall moves in during the late afternoon and evening, helping to ease fire concerns. Until then, residents are urged to use extreme caution outdoors.
