Severe Thunderstorms for the Center of the Nation; Fire Weather Concerns; Flooding Issues for the Great Lakes Region

A round of severe thunderstorms are forecast across areas of the Southern Plains, Mississippi Valley and Great Lakes this afternoon and tonight; The threat for flash flooding will also accompany these storms. The rainfall for the Great Lakes region could prolong the ongoing flooding. Where the rain is needed, the Southern High Plains, critical fire weather concerns through today. Read More >

Fire Weather Watch/Red Flag Warning Criteria

Specific conditions must be met for a Fire Weather Watch and/or a Red Flag Warning to be issued. These conditions are as follows:

1. KBDI greater that or equal to 600, and

2. Two minute ASOS winds greater than or equal to 17 kts (20 mph), or 20 foot winds greater than or equal to 14 kts (16 mph), and

3. Minimum relative humidity of less than 60% in one or more observations, and

4. Low 10-hr fuel moisture, typical less than 13.

5. Monthly precipitation less than two inches with a decrease and/or cessations of percolation (dew)can signal the onset of the fire season. Forecaster judgment must be used in the watch/warning decision making process.