High winds, low humidity and dry ground conditions have combined to create an elevated risk of fire across parts of Maine on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.
“A very dry air mass over the area and strong, gusty northwest winds will combine with dead and dry fuels such as grass, leaves and twigs to create the potential for uncontrolled fire spread across the greater Bangor area and Downeast Maine,” the agency’s Caribou office said in a Saturday advisory.
The agency’s Gray office, which covers the southern portion of the state, also issued a high fire danger warning. A high wind advisory is in effect until early evening.
On Sunday, humidity levels were expected to drop to between 20 and 30 percent, with wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph. Fire danger remains high due to leftover debris from winter and weather conditions favorable for fast-moving fires.
“Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended,” the warning stated.
Officials urge residents to use extra caution outdoors and avoid burning until conditions improve.
