The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning at 4:08 a.m. on Thursday valid for Thursday between noon and 7 p.m. for Choctaw, Washington, Clarke, Wilcox, Monroe, Conecuh, Butler, Crenshaw, Escambia, Covington, Mobile and Baldwin counties.

Winds are expected to be westerly around 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph and relative humidity as low as 20 percent.

“Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended,” describes the weather service.

What does a red flag warning mean?

A red flag warning indicates that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently happening or will happen soon, as per the weather service. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire to spread rapidly.

So, what are the recommended measures to take during a red flag warning?

A red flag warning demands vigilance and immediate readiness to respond to potential fires. The weather service provides these vital guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety:

1. Secure burn barrels:

• In areas where controlled burning is sanctioned, make certain that burn barrels sport a weighty metal cover, equipped with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Mindful handling of smoking materials:

• Never discard lit cigarette butts outside, and avoid tossing cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle. These seemingly small actions can lead to dry grass ignition, potentially sparking a wildfire.

3. Prudent fire extinguishing practices:

• To thwart accidental fires, diligently extinguish all outdoor fires. Suffocate them with an ample deluge of water and stir to ensure complete cooling. Submerge charcoal in water until it’s entirely devoid of heat. Never leave live charcoal unattended.

4. Never desert a blaze:

• Avoid abandoning any fire without supervision. Even minor sparks or drifting embers can incite nearby foliage or grass, setting off a rapidly spreading fire.

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay informed, and act responsibly to protect lives and property.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.