Lewiston, Maine – Wildfire danger will climb across western and central Maine Thursday as gusty winds and low humidity combine with dry vegetation to create prime fire conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Gray, a very dry air mass is in place over the region, and southerly winds of 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph will persist throughout the afternoon and evening. Relative humidity is expected to fall as low as 35%, accelerating drying of already dead fuels like leaves and grass.
Counties under elevated fire weather concern include Oxford, Franklin, Somerset, York, Cumberland, Kennebec, Waldo, and Knox. Cities at risk include Farmington, Augusta, Rockland, Portland, and Biddeford. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and residents are urged to contact local fire officials before conducting any open burn activities.
Evening conditions will bring a slight recovery in humidity, but wind speeds are expected to remain breezy. Campfires should be avoided unless fully permitted, and all fires must be completely extinguished before leaving them unattended.
Fire weather concerns may continue into Friday depending on wind and humidity trends. Updates will be issued as conditions evolve.
