Amsterdam, NY Severe Weather Alertstar_ratehome

...ELEVATED RISK FOR FIRE SPREAD TODAY...

The combination of dry fine fuels, southerly wind gusts up to 15
to 25 mph, and relative humidity values as low as 20 to 35 percent
will contribute to an elevated risk for fire spread today for
portions of the Catskills and Mohawk Valley, with the lowest
relative humidity and strongest winds occurring this afternoon.

As a reminder, the annual statewide burn ban is in effect until
May 14. No burn permits are issued. Use extra caution if handling
any potential ignition sources such as machinery or matches, and
ensure to properly extinguish or dispose of cigarette butts.
Please refer to the New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation web site for more information on burn restrictions.

...RED FLAG WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM NOON TODAY TO 6 PM EDT
THIS EVENING FOR CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS FOR MUCH OF THE
HUDSON VALLEY...

* Affected Area...Portions of the Upper Hudson Valley/Champlain
FDRA including Warren, Saratoga, and Washington Counties, as
well as portions of the Hudson Valley FDRA including eastern
Montgomery, Schenectady, Albany, Rensselaer, eastern Greene,
Columbia, eastern Ulster, Dutchess, and Sullivan Counties.

* Timing...From noon to 6 PM today, with the lowest relative
humidity values and highest wind gusts expected during the
afternoon.

* Winds...South 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 35 mph.

* Relative Humidity...As low as 20 to 30 percent.

* Temperatures...In the upper 50s.

* Impacts...Any fire that develops will catch and spread
quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions
are either occurring now....or will shortly. A combination of
strong winds...low relative humidity...and warm temperatures can
contribute to extreme fire behavior.

&&