A combination of breezy winds and exceptionally dry ground conditions will increase the chance for fire weather concerns this afternoon into this evening. Low relative humidity values are expected to drop into the upper 30 to low 40 percent range during peak heating hours across parts of southeast Ohio. Southerly wind gusts of 15 to 20 mph can be expected at times during the afternoon. Ohio law prohibits burning in the fall from 6 AM to 6 PM. With similar weather conditions expected on Tuesday, it would not be advised to burn this evening as lingering overnight embers could spread.

Low relative humidity values resulting from exceptionally dry weather will impose an increased risk for fire spread this afternoon. Relative humidity values are expected to drop into the upper 30 to low 40 percent range during peak heating hours across eastern Ohio, western Pennsylvania and northern West Virginia. Southerly wind gusts to 15-20 mph at times are expected this afternoon. Exercise enhanced caution with activities that involve open flames or sparks as fires can easily spread in these weather conditions.