National Weather Service Warns of Elevated Wildfire Risk in Upstate New York

A National Weather Service warning for western and northern New York state predicts a high risk of wildfire due to unseasonably dry and windy spring conditions. Humidity levels are expected to drop below 20%, with wind gusts reaching up to 30 mph, and temperatures nearing 70 degrees under mostly sunny skies. The combination of dry conditions and strong winds has increased the fire hazard to moderate, the second-lowest of five categories, in Upstate New York.

National Weather Service Warns of Increased Wildfire Risk in Upstate New York

Syracuse, N.Y. - The National Weather Service has issued a special weather statement warning of an elevated risk of wildfires across most of Upstate New York today, citing a combination of dry and windy conditions.

Humidity levels are anticipated to fall below 20%, while winds could reach gusts of up to 30 mph. Temperatures are forecast to climb to near 70 degrees under predominantly sunny skies.

"Despite a wet spring, fine fuels such as dead grass and leaf litter will rapidly desiccate in these conditions," the weather service stated in its advisory. "Should any fires ignite, the prevailing dry and windy weather will exacerbate the spread of the blaze, rendering containment challenging."

Syracuse has experienced approximately half an inch more rainfall since March 1 compared to historical averages. Nonetheless, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has classified the statewide fire danger as moderate, the second-lowest category on a five-point scale.

Precipitation is expected tonight, potentially delivering half an inch of rainfall across Upstate.

Spring is typically the peak wildfire season in Upstate New York, occurring before foliage emerges and plants absorb moisture from the soil. Consequently, an annual statewide outdoor burn ban is enforced from mid-March to mid-May; this year, the ban will expire on May 14. Brush burning is permissible under specific regulations during other times of the year. However, burning household waste is strictly prohibited in New York.

The weather service strongly advises against open burning during these high-risk conditions. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution and report any suspicious smoke or flames to the appropriate authorities immediately.

Additional weather updates and safety recommendations will be disseminated through local media outlets and the National Weather Service website.