Red Flag Warning in effect for southeastern Minnesota Wednesday

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Southern Minnesota today.

The Red Flag Warning is in effect from today from 11:00 a.m., through 8:00 p.m. Strong winds, low relative humidity and abnormally warm temperatures will contribute to critical weather conditions that are ideal for a wildfire to spread quickly.

Counties in the Red Flag Warning include Mower, Dodge, Faribault, Fillmore, Freeborn, Houston, Jackson, Martin, Olmsted, Wabasha, and Winona.  Residents should not burn in those counties where a Red Flag Warning is in effect.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is discouraged. Please stay tuned to possible forecast and alert updates, including Red Flag Warnings.  The Minnesota Interagency Fire Center urges everyone to be careful with any potential heat sources that can cause a spark during a Red Flag Warning. If you do spot an escaped wildfire, call 911.

Statewide fire danger and burning restrictions are updated daily at https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/forestry/fire/firerating_restrictions.html