Weekend Weather Alert: Windy Conditions, Burn Ban in Effect

A wind advisory is in effect for the Baltimore-Washington area, including Howard County, through 6 p.m. Saturday.

The National Weather Service (NWS) said that winds could gust up to 50 mph.

Because of the windy conditions, the Howard County Fire Marshal has placed a ban on all burning in Howard County for the weekend. 

Violating the ban on open fires, which is in effect from Feb. 24–27, can result in a $250 fine, according to Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDRFS).

"ALL recreational burning has been banned and ALL recreational burning permits have been revoked until the ban on open burning has been lifted," wrote HCDFRS in a statement Feb. 24.

According to the Howard County fire marshal, a recreational fire is defined as "the burning of seasoned firewood for pleasure, religious, ceremonial, cooking or other similar purposes. It is illegal to burn refuse, brush, leaves, debris, or other materials in Howard County."

The NWS said that gusty wind coupled with low humidity makes wildfires a possibility in some areas.

In addition, HCDFRS provided these precautions:

• Be mindful of discarding items that can easily catch fire.
• Do not operate all-terrain vehicles on dry vegetation areas. 
• Secure loose items such as lawn furniture that might be blown about by high winds.
• Check lawnmowers and farm equipment for properly working spark arresters.
• Use caution when driving; high winds reduce visibility and make it difficult to control a vehicle.
• Watch for debris that can fall on roadways and other areas.

This article was updated at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25.