May 5, 2015 @2:46pm
Northeastern Arizona has been recently experiencing Red Flag conditions in Greenlee, Apache and Navajo Counties. Combine strong winds, low relative humidity levels, fuels with low moisture content and you get to experience spring in the White Mountains. Go to www.fs/usda/gov/asnf to see the newly signed forest-wide order (01-15-577) to be used when campfires, smoking and use of torches or open flames are prohibited during Red Flag Weather warnings.
A RED FLAG being flown from our fire danger sign identifies red flag conditions are in effect, and it is the responsibility of the National Weather Service (NWS) forecast offices to implement the Red Flag Warning when conditions exist. The Forest Service will not display a red flag until alerted by the National Weather Service that a Red Flag Warning is in effect.
The RED FLAG WARNING is used to warn of impending and/or unusually severe fire weather conditions. These conditions are conducive to erratic and extreme fire behavior should a fire start or there is ongoing suppression activity. Fires have the potential to create their own localized weather activity, and red flag conditions exacerbate an already challenging situation.
A RED FLAG WARNING will be issued immediately by the National Weather Service when the following combination of conditions occurs or is expected within 24 hours:
1. 20 ft. wind speed sustained greater than (>) 20 mph or gusting consistently above 35 mph.
2. Relative humidity less than (<) 15%.
3. National Fire Danger Rating System (NFRDS) adjective fire danger ratings of “high” or greater based on data retrieved from remote access weather stations.
When a warning is issued, the phrase RED FLAG WARNING will headline the routine forecast or be included in a short warning statement. The warning remains in effect until is it either canceled or it expires at a pre-determined time, i.e., 24-hours.
Land management agencies and local community fire departments use the same criteria for recognizing red flag weather conditions. Although, both fly the flag simultaneously, they fly it for different reasons. Land management agencies are tasked with reducing the potential for wildland fire activity.
Visitors to the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests would be prohibited from having campfires and/or using a charcoal barbecue when those conditions exist. The primary concern of community fire departments is unmanaged debris or fire pit burning within their fire protection area. Private property owners may be required to get a permit from the fire department before any burning takes place, or may be prohibited from open burning until red flag conditions subside. A red flag flying at either location is relevant to both residents and visitors alike.
A Fire Weather Watch is used by the National Weather Service to alert agencies and citizens of the potential for development of a significant fire weather event in the near future. A Fire Weather Watch is issued when the fire weather forecaster is reasonably confident that significant conditions may develop within the next 72 hrs. When a watch is issued, the phrase Fire Weather Watch will be in the headline of the routine forecast or short warning statement. The watch remains in effect until it expires, is canceled or upgraded to a warning.
Know before you go! For more information please call 311 and or 928-333-3412 or visit https://311info.net
For more information on fire weather visit the National Weather Service website at http://www.wrh.noaa.gov