Red Flag Warning Issued For Maryland

MARYLAND — Because of the potential for extreme fire behavior Sunday, the National Weather Service issued a red flag warning, which signals critical fire conditions are imminent or occurring.

The red flag warning is in effect from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday for Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George's counties and Baltimore City.

Officials are discouraging outdoor burning Sunday in these areas due to dry, windy and warm conditions. People should take care when disposing of cigarette butts and matches and when operating machinery that could cause sparks.

Northwest winds of 15 to 25 mph are expected, with gusts up to 40 mph. Relative humidity will be as low as 16 percent, with 3 to 6 percent fuel moisture for fine fuels.

Highs are forecast to be in the high 50s and low 60s Sunday in central Maryland.

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

After a dry cold front arrives, forecasters say chilly weather will return Monday, with highs in the mid 40s and the potential for light snow and rain Monday night.

See the latest forecast from the National Weather Service.

The red flag alert replaces an earlier fire weather watch.

PREVIOUS REPORT (EXPIRED): Authorities issued a fire weather watch to discourage outdoor burning Sunday, March 14.

Dry, windy conditions will increase the likelihood that fires may spread rapidly, according to the National Weather Service.

Northwesterly winds of 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph could occur, officials say.

The fire weather watch applies to Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Cecil, Frederick, Harford, Howard, Montgomery and Prince George's counties and Baltimore City. It is in effect from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.

A fire weather watch means "critical fire weather conditions are forecast" and red flag warnings could be issued, according to the National Weather Service. A red flag warning is issued if fire danger is imminent because of warm temperatures, low humidity and strong winds.

The Fire Weather Watch for Sunday has now been expanded further west to include much of the higher elevations. The combination of gusty winds and low humidity will lead to an increased risk for the spread of wildfires. pic.twitter.com/vTZ6Jv5xRT
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) March 13, 2021