NWS Issues 'Red Flag Warning' For D.C. Area Due To Fire Potential

VIRGINIA/DC — The National Weather Service has issued a "red flag warning" for the entire D.C. area Thursday due to low relative humidity and expected gusty winds.

The warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday for central and Northern Virginia and the District of Columbia. Winds are expected to be 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph.

A red flag warning means that "critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly," according to the NWS. All outdoor burning "is discouraged, as fires could rapidly spread and become uncontrollable."

"A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior," the weather service said. "Be careful of heat and sparks while operating any equipment, and avoid smoking in wildland areas."

The NWS said it issues red flag warnings "in conjunction with land management agencies to alert land managers to an ongoing or imminent critical fire weather pattern."

It has been almost 10 days since soaking rains were in the area, a long enough time to dry out the ground, creating better conditions — combustible vegetation or fuel — for fire.

Due to the fire risk, the public is asked not to throw their cigarettes out of their cars when traveling. Brush or trash should not be burned without appropriate approval on any day. Use of outside grills also is discouraged on red flag warning days.

The Washington Post's Capital Weather Gang explains that this is the typical time of year for these alerts in the region. The last red flag warning in the area was issued in April 2019.

By Friday morning, when the warning is expected to be lifted, the NWS is calling for a chance of showers, with a high temperature for the day around 67. Over the weekend, after a cool front moves into the area, high temperatures are expected to be in the mid-50s.

On Monday, forecasters are calling for a high of only 42 and then a chance of rain and snow that night.