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National Weather Service warns of elevated fire danger on Saturday

Crystal Graham
prescribed burn fire forest
(© Chris Brignell – stock.adobe.com)

Elevated fire conditions are expected Saturday due to the combination of dry conditions and gusty winds, according to a Special Weather Statement issued by the National Weather Service.

The greatest risk is Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Daytime relative humidity values around 30 percent are expected, along with sustained northwesterly winds of 15 to 20 mph and gusts of 25 to 30 mph.

This will result in the rapid drying of fine fuels like grass, leaves and small shrubs.

Most dry grasses, dead leaves and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread a fire quickly.

Tips to prevent wildfires

  • Exercise caution if handling open flames
  • Exercise caution if using equipment that creates sparks
  • Dispose of cigarette butts, matches and other flammable items in appropriate containers
  • Keep vehicles off of dry grass
  • Obey local burn bags

Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

Crystal Abbe Graham is the regional editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, she has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of Virginia Tonight, a nightly TV news show on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television.