Charleston, WV – A heightened wildfire risk has been issued for parts of Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Virginia due to dry conditions, low humidity, and gusty winds expected throughout Friday afternoon and evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, WV, recent lack of precipitation combined with humidity levels between 15% and 30% and wind gusts reaching up to 25 mph create an environment where wildfires could spread rapidly. Authorities are urging residents to avoid outdoor burning to prevent potential fire outbreaks.
In Ohio, the affected areas include Perry, Morgan, Athens, Washington, Jackson, Vinton, Meigs, Gallia, and Lawrence counties. State law prohibits outdoor burning between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. from March 1 through May 31.
West Virginia counties, including Wayne, Cabell, Mason, Jackson, Wood, and several others, are also at risk. Under state law, outdoor burning is banned from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the spring fire season, which runs through May 31.
Kentucky and Virginia residents in Greenup, Carter, Boyd, Lawrence, Dickenson, and Buchanan counties should also take precautions. Kentucky prohibits burning within 150 feet of woodland from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. through April 30, while Virginia restricts outdoor burning between midnight and 4 p.m. near forested areas.
Officials urge residents to follow burning regulations and report any signs of wildfire activity immediately to local emergency services.
