Central Wyoming, particularly Natrona County, is under a red flag warning for fires for the first half of the week.
The National Weather Service in Riverton issued the warning on Monday morning, and it will be in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday.
A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions either are occurring or will shortly. A combination of winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to this type of fire condition.
The NWS in Riverton predicted humidity as low as 10% in the central part of the state, with temperature highs in the mid to upper 90s on Tuesday and upper 80s on Wednesday. Wind gusts could reach 40 miles per hour.
The NWS provided tips on what to do during a red flag warning, which inclulded:
- If you are allowed to burn in your area, all burn barrels must be covered with a weighted metal cover, with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch;
- Don’t throw cigarettes or matches out of a moving vehicle. They could ignite dry grass on the side of the road and become a wildfire;
- Extinguish all outdoor fires properly. Drown fires with plenty of water and stir to make sure everything is cold to the touch. Dunk charcoal in water until cold. Don’t throw live charcoal on the ground and leave it;
- Never leave a fire unattended, since sparks or embers can blow into leaves or grass, ignite and fire and quickly spread;
