Red flag warning issued for leeward areas of Big Island

A red flag warning has been posted for leeward areas of the Big Island due to the threat of extreme fire conditions.

Although windward areas did recently receive some rainfall, fuels remain dry in leeward areas. Combined with gusty trade winds and low relative humidity, critical fire weather conditions are expected over leeward areas this afternoon and Thursday afternoon, the National Weather Service said.

Trade winds of 20 mph with locally higher gusts are forecast through 6 p.m. Thursday. Humidity is forecast to be around 40% to 45% during the afternoon hours.

“Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly,” forecasters cautioned. “Outdoor burning is not recommended.”

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. The warning does not predict new fire starts.