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The NWS Red Flag Warning Map on October 16, 2024. (Included)

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – A red flag warning was issued Wednesday across portions of southwest and west central Minnesota due to the extreme fire danger.

The National Weather Service issued an “extreme fire danger” warning for 27 counties. The warning says very dry conditions, lower humidity and stronger winds will result in “red fire weather conditions” for part of Wednesday.

Which districts are affected?

The warning is in effect in 27 counties from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. These counties include Big Stone, Brown, Chippewa, Clay, Cottonwood, Douglas, Grant, Jackson, Kandiyohi, Lac Qui Parle, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Murray, Nobles, Otter Tail, Pipestone, Pope, Redwood, Renville, Rock, Stevens, Swift, Traverse, Watonwan, Wilkin and Yellow Medicine.

What is a Red Flag Warning?

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) said a red flag warning means “fires can spread quickly and easily get out of control under forecast weather conditions, including gusty winds and low relative humidity.” Do not burn in red flag counties.” A warning is in effect. Check any recent fires to ensure the fire is completely out.”

When a Red Flag Warning is issued, the DNR will not issue or activate permits for open burning and campfires are discouraged.

Fire hazards and fire restrictions

Much of Minnesota is at “very high” fire risk, meaning fires can start easily and spread very quickly. Parts of southeastern and northwestern Minnesota are at a “high” fire risk, while northern Minnesota is at a “moderate” fire risk, the DNR website says.

There are now some fire restrictions in place across much of the state. Parts of northeastern Minnesota have stricter fire restrictions in place, meaning no open burning is allowed and additional restrictions may be required depending on the current fire threat.

For more information on the current statewide fire danger and fire restrictions, visit the Minnesota DNR website.