Snow Squalls from the Upper Midwest to Great Lakes; High Winds in the Northern and Central Plains

An Arctic front will bring widespread snow squalls through Friday from the Upper Midwest to the Ohio Valley. Heavy snow rates and strong winds will lead to near-zero visibility and dangerous travel conditions. High winds will continue across the northern and central High Plains through Friday, with wind gusts above 60 mph likely, leading to hazardous travel conditions. 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.