NWS, DNR issue high fire danger warning March 10-12
Metro Wire Staff
Portage Co. and surrounding areas are under a high fire danger warning this week.
The National Weather Service in Green Bay said below-normal precipitation and snowfall this winter, combined with mild temperatures, has led to an early melt of the snowpack across much of Wisconsin.
Warm temps in the early part of this week, with record or near-record temps expected on Tuesday, mean a heightened fire danger, NWS said.
On Tuesday, the temperature is expected to close in on 70 degrees with relative humidity values of 25-40 percent and wind gusts of around 25 miles an hour are possible.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has provided some tips for residents during heightened fire danger:
- Avoid any outdoor burning until conditions improve. Burn permits for debris burning are currently suspended in numerous counties.
- Don’t toss cigarette butts out of a car window or on the ground.
- Operate equipment (chainsaws, off-road vehicles, lawnmowers, etc.) early in the morning or late in the day to avoid sparks at peak burn hours.
- Secure dragging trailer chains.
- Report fires early by calling 911.
