High winds, low humidity prompt red flag warning for Southern Utah

August 28, 2018 Utah Channel 3

ST. GEORGE — The National Weather Service in Salt Lake City has issued a red flag warning for wind and low relative humidity for Washington, Iron and Beaver counties and will be in effect until 9 p.m. Thursday.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or are imminent. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

Affected areas

Shaded areas reflect regions covered by a red flag warning issued for Aug. 29-30, 2018 | Images courtesy of the National Weather Service, St. George News | **Click to enlarge**

The affected areas include the Wasatch Mountains, Central Utah West Desert and Color Country West Desert.

Winds

Southwest winds are expected to be 10-20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph.

Relative humidity

Humidity will be as low as 9 percent.

Impacts

Any fires that develop will have the potential to spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

Email: mheckenliable@stgnews.com

Twitter: @STGnews | @markeekaenews