Dry conditions and gusty southerly winds will lead to near critical fire weather conditions Friday, Aug. 20, in northeast Minnesota, including most of the Brainerd lakes area.
The National Weather Service in Duluth reported winds 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph are forecast for this afternoon and evening. Minimum relative humidity values of 35% to 50% are also expected.
Showers and thunderstorms will move into the region Friday evening which could enhance already gusty winds, the weather service reported. Additionally, lightning could cause new fire starts which could spread quickly with these conditions.
Fire officials report that fuels are excessively dry across northeast Minnesota. These conditions could lead to rapid spread of fires. Check burning restrictions and fire danger before burning.
For more information on burning restrictions for Minnesota, see www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/firerating_restrictions.html.
