Fire Warning: National Weather Service Issues a Red Flag Alert for Monday.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for all of New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania, cautioning residents about “critical fire weather conditions” on Monday, May 4, from 1 to 8 p.m.

The North Caldwell Fire Department is asking residents to refrain from using outdoor fireplaces while the warning is in effect.

Forecasters are calling for winds of 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph, and a relative humidity between 20 and 30 percent.

According to the NWS website, Red Flag Warnings are issued to alert land management agencies about critical weather and fuel moisture conditions that could lead to rapid or dramatic increases in wildfire activity.

These critical weather conditions can include low relative humidity, strong winds or dry fuels.

“Any fires that develop may quickly get out of control and become difficult to contain,” the NWS website states.

Wikipedia explains more about how a “Red Flag” alert affects residents and public safety workers:

“After drought conditions, when humidity is very low, and especially when high or erratic winds which may include lightning are a factor, the Red Flag Warning becomes a critical statement for firefighting agencies. These agencies often alter their staffing and equipment resources dramatically to accommodate the forecast risk.”

The website adds:

“To the public, a Red Flag Warning means high fire danger with increased probability of a quickly spreading vegetation fire in the area within 24 hours.”