'Extreme Fire' Warnings In Two States, With 45mph Winds And Sinking Humidity

The National Weather Service has issued 'red flag' warnings in two U.S. states, beginning this week, due to sinking humidity and strong winds that could cause "extreme fire behavior".

While the Northeastern United States face extreme snow warnings and dangerous ice conditions, the Midwest is tackling the opposite problem. As spring approaches, two states are at risk of flash fires and extreme heat.

Nebraska & Wyoming Issued Red Flag Fire Warnings

Certain counties in Nebraska and Wyoming have received warnings of "critical fire weather conditions" that will likely endure into the morning of Thursday, March 26.

The NWS issued the warnings on the grounds of "record high temperatures, very low humidity, and gusty winds, which is in effect from 11 a.m. CDT /10 a.m MDT on Wednesday to 11 a.m CDT /10 a.m MDT on Thursday. The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect."

Nebraska and Wyoming are facing winds of "15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph Wednesday afternoon. A sharp wind shift from west to north is expected Thursday morning, with north winds 20 to 30 with gusts up to 45 mph expected."

Temperatures could reportedly reach the upper 80s and low 90s, which increases the risk of flash fires in conjunction with low humidity and strong winds. The NWS also warned of "dry lightning" in Nebraska; while the possibility is low, residents should attempt to stay inside in particularly dry areas because "any fire starts may spread rapidly and be difficult to control."

In Wyoming, the NWS asserts that residents should not burn anything outdoors, as the high temperatures and strong winds could cause fires to spread rapidly. They also warn: "A few showers developing Wednesday afternoon and evening will have the potential to produce isolated lightning and gusty/erratic winds in their vicinity."

While the conditions should not affect travel or work, residents in these areas should remain vigilant and ensure safe conditions to avoid fire risks.

The NWS has also issued a "fire weather watch" in the majority of Wyoming, while the "red flag" warnings are isolated to specific counties. Full information can be found on the National Weather Service website here.