A statewide fire emergency has been issued by Governor Burgum as 67 fires have been reported just this week burning 3500+ acres in North Dakota. September was a record-dry month for us in Fargo and very dry across much of North Dakota and Minnesota. Near critical fire conditions are expected this Saturday with low relative humidity, strong winds, and dry conditions across the State.
Overnight Friday into Saturday morning expect south winds to increase between 20-40 mph then switching out of the west through Saturday morning gusting as high as 60+ mph across the state and even into Northern Minnesota. Dew points will drop into the upper 20s and mow 30s with relative humidity values in the 20 percent range. Fire conditions will reach a critical level and just a single spark can ignite an out of control fire. Keep note of any chains dragging behind or off of vehicles and combines. Dont park vehicles on grass as the exhaust can start fires, and keep farm equipment and combines clean and inspect regularly to avoid combine fires.
High wind warnings and watches along with widespread red flag warnings have been issued across several states. More will likely follow and spread further east.
Weather Advisories via National Weather Service
Windy conditions last into Sunday with gusts to 40 mph out of the northwest with low humidity. Lighter winds next week, still dry with warm temperatures in the 70s.
Meteorolgoist,
Justin Storm
