JRWeather Closing; Fire Weather Watch In Effect

Very Dry Conditions Are Resulting In Potential Rapid Fire Growth...

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DISCUSSION
     Recent dry conditions have resulted in the issuance of a Fire Weather Watch from the National Weather Service out of both Burlington, VT, and Albany, NY, for the entire state of Vermont, and the Champlain Valley of Northern New York.

     Part of the criteria for a Fire Weather Watch or Red Flag Warning for pre-greenup (late winter-early spring) is a quarter inch or less of precipitation in the previous 3 days. This has clearly been the case for our region, as the last widespread measurable precipitation was back on the 8th which was 4 days ago, but that was generally less then a quarter of an inch, except across far eastern/ northeastern Vermont, where over a half inch of rain was reported with isolated areas with over an inch. With that in mine I don't feel the Northeast Kingdom (NEK) is needed under the Watch or the potential subsequent Red Flag Warning, as too much rain in that area, plus some snow still on the ground across that area will help eliminate the fire threat, regardless of any other factors.

     The next factor for the region (Minus NEK) is winds will be strong. Winds will be sustained in the 10-20MPH range, with gusts up to 35MPH, especially in the North-South oriented valleys, such as the Champlain Valley, and lower Connecticut River Valley. In addition relative humidities will be very low, ranging from 18-25%.

     All these factors combined will result in the potential for rapid fire growth should fires develop. It is strongly recommended not to burn Monday as the fire will easily get out of your control. If a Red Flag Warning is issued then you should not be burning. If you decide to disobey your local communities burn policies, and/ or a Red Flag Warning, by burning, it could result in not only a devastating fire, but subsequent legal penalties as well. Remember to contact your local fire warden, or fire officials before burning, on any day. Stay tuned for further updates.

I apologize for no alert maps being issued. All JRWeather graphics are undergoing maintenance, as they are being transformed for the new Champlain Valley Weather blog site. Sorry for any inconvenience.