Fire Weather Watch, Warning and Advisory Definitions

Watch, Warning, and Advisory Definitions

Recent Watches/Warnings/Advisories for Southeast Michigan

Fire Weather Definitions

Fire Weather Watch

Fire Weather Watches are issued anytime the area has been dry for substantial amount of time (or for a shorter period during spring green-up or after fall color), the National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS) is high to extreme, and critical weather conditions are expected within the next 48 hours. These critical elements are:

sustained winds averaging 15 mph or greater

relative humidity 25 percent or less

temperature 75°F or greater

Red Flag Warning

Red Flag Warnings are issued anytime there is an ongoing wildfire, or critical weather conditions will occur within the next 24 hours. These conditions are:

sustained winds averaging 15 mph or greater

relative humidity 25 percent or less

temperature 75°F or greater