Philadelphia, PA – Warm, dry air is raising the risk of fire spread across eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey today, with temperatures climbing as high as 83°F by afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, Tuesday’s elevated fire danger is driven by decreasing clouds, early morning showers clearing out, and unseasonably warm highs ranging from 63°F to 83°F. The concern is particularly focused in open fields and forested areas where vegetation has dried out from a lack of recent rainfall.
Conditions will remain warm into Thursday, with highs between 68°F and 78°F and increasing cloud cover. A warm front moving in late Thursday could bring spotty nighttime showers, with a higher chance for rain and thunderstorms developing on Friday. Highs by May 2 are expected to reach 85°F, along with rising humidity.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and report any signs of smoke. Winds may be light, but dry fuels and warmth could allow fires to spread quickly, especially in rural or brush-filled areas.
Showers and potential storms could help ease fire concerns by Friday, but warnings remain in effect for Tuesday. Check weather.gov/phi for local updates.
