Sterling, VA – Special Weather Statement–Alert—Enhanced threat for the spread of wildfires today…
Minimum relative humidity values will drop to between 20 and 30 percent late this morning and afternoon across much of central and Northern Virginia, the District of Columbia, portions of eastern West Virginia, and portions of Central and Southern Maryland.
Sustained southwest winds between 15 and 20 mph with frequent gusts of 25 to 35 mph are also expected during this time. The combination of gusty winds…low relative humidity and low fuel moisture will enhance the threat for the spread of wildfires late
this morning into early this evening.
Residents are urged to exercise caution handling any potential ignition source…including machinery… cigarettes…and matches. Be sure to properly discard all smoking materials. Any dry grasses and tree litter that ignite will have the potential to spread quickly. Please check with local officials regarding any open burning laws.