Red Flag Warning Issued For NoVa

Authorities have just issued a "red flag warning" for the Northern Virginia area, meaning we are at a heightened risk of out-of-control wildfires.

The National Weather Service issued the warning, which stretches from noon until 8 p.m. on Thursday.

"A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly," the notice states. "A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior."

Some of the factors include dry conditions with low humidity (meaning dry air), low fuel moisture (meaning dry vegetation), and windy conditions (meaning the fire can spread rapidly) with gusts up to 35 miles per hour.

As a result, D.C. area residents are advised to avoid burning anything outside, and to dispose of cigarettes properly. If you see a fire, alert the authorities immediately.

Be careful w/ open flames today! A Red Flag WARNING in effect for MoCo & DC area. Fires can spread rapidly w/ dry conditions & gusty winds Outside Fire Danger, If you see smoke or fire in brush/wooded areas, Call 911. Sooner @mcfrs FFs can respond to contain a fire, the better pic.twitter.com/GHim22M2Q1
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) April 12, 2018

(Photo by Brook Mitchell/Getty Images)