...Synopsis... Elevated fire weather conditions are expected today across portions of the Plains where rainfall deficits over the past two weeks have led to gradual drying of fine fuels. A low-amplitude upper wave noted in early-morning water-vapor imagery will propagate through the apex of a long-wave ridge centered over the central CONUS. A surface low attendant to this upper feature will shift east across the Canadian Prairies through the day, resulting in increased dry, westerly downslope flow along the northern/central High Plains and portions of the southern High Plains.
...Nebraska... Early-morning surface observations show a pocket of dry air (dewpoints in the 20-25 F range) across the CO/WY/NE tri-state region with further drying expected as downslope warming/drying increases through the afternoon. RH minimums between 15-20% appear likely and should coincide with 15-20 mph winds (gusting to 25-30 mph at times) by peak heating when boundary-layer mixing will be maximized. Latest high-res ensemble guidance depicts the highest probability for sustained critical conditions across portions of west-central NE, though the exact coverage remains somewhat uncertain based on spread in deterministic solutions. Regardless, widespread elevated fire weather conditions are likely with areas of critical conditions possible. Given some fire activity over the past 24 hours, fuels will support the fire weather concern.
...Eastern New Mexico/Texas... Further south, drier conditions are noted across portions of central NM where dewpoints remain in the teens. This dry air mass will spread east through the day with RH values falling to the low teens as westerly winds become more prevalent. However, greater displacement from the primary surface low to the north should result in a more muted wind response. Sustained winds near 15 mph appear most probable for the majority of the region, though gusts up to 20-25 mph are possible. Pockets of elevated fire weather conditions are possible across much of the region, though the current risk area depicts where confidence in sustained elevated conditions is highest per recent guidance.
General Precautions for Fire Weather
Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and fire warnings from official sources like [Local Fire Department, National Weather Service, etc. Have a battery-powered radio in case of power outages.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay close attention to your surroundings and be aware of any signs of fire, such as smoke or unusual fire behavior.
Be Ready to Evacuate
Prepare a "Go Bag": Have a readily accessible bag with essential items in case of evacuation, including:
Water
Non-perishable food
First-aid kit
Medications
Flashlight with extra batteries
Important documents (copies)
Clothing for all weather conditions
Cell phone and charger
Pet supplies (if applicable)
Be Prepared
Create a Wildfire Action Plan: Discuss a wildfire action plan with your family, including evacuation routes and meeting points. Practice your plan regularly.
Prepare your Home
Maintain Your Property:
Clear brush and debris around your home.
Keep lawns and vegetation trimmed.
Ensure your address is clearly visible from the street.
Inspect and maintain outdoor equipment (mowers, chainsaws, etc.) to prevent sparks.
Avoid Activities that Could Spark a Fire:
Refrain from open burning, including campfires and backyard fires.
Be extremely careful with smoking materials.
Avoid using fireworks.
Be cautious when operating machinery that could produce sparks, especially in dry grass or brush.
Ensure vehicles are in good working order, with no dragging parts that could create sparks.
If a Wildfire Threatens Your Area:
Evacuate Immediately: If you are advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Do not wait until the last minute.
Follow Evacuation Routes: Follow designated evacuation routes and do not take shortcuts.
Stay Informed: Listen to official sources for updates and instructions.
If Trapped: If you cannot evacuate, seek shelter in a sturdy building away from vegetation. Close all doors and windows and stay inside until it is safe to leave.
Remember: Wildfires can spread quickly and unexpectedly. Being prepared and taking precautions can significantly reduce your risk. Your safety is your responsibility.
