A Red Flag Warning will be in effect from noon MDT 8 p.m. MDT) for much of western South Dakota and portions of northeast Wyoming, as dangerous fire weather conditions are expected.
According to the National Weather Service, a strong cold front will move through the region late this afternoon and early this evening, bringing gusty winds, very low humidity, and unseasonably warm temperatures. West winds will increase to 15 to 25 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 30 to 45 mph ahead of the front. Northwest winds are expected behind it.
Relative humidity levels are forecast to drop as low as 12 percent, creating prime conditions for rapid fire growth. High temperatures will run 15 to 25 degrees above normal, adding to the fire danger.
Fire officials say the combination of strong winds, low humidity, warm temperatures, and ongoing drought conditions could allow any fire that starts to spread quickly and behave unpredictably.
A Red Flag Warning means critical fire weather conditions are occurring or imminent. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, secure potential ignition sources, and use extreme caution with activities that could spark a fire.
Conditions are expected to improve later this evening as winds subside and humidity levels recover along with chances of rain and snow daily through Saturday.
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