National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for Schuylkill County and most of central Pennsylvania. The watch is set to be in effect from 11 am to 8 pm on Tuesday, June 6.
Other counties impacted include Northern Clinton, Northern Centre, Southern Centre, Blair, Huntingdon, Mifflin, Juniata, Bedford, Fulton, Franklin, Northern Lycoming, Sullivan, Southern Clinton, Southern Lycoming, Union, Snyder, Montour, Northumberland, Columbia, Perry, Dauphin, Lebanon, Cumberland, Adams, York, and Lancaster.
A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry conditions are forecasted to create critical fire weather conditions. Winds are expected to be northwest at 10-20 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph over higher terrain. Relative humidity may drop as low as 20-25%. Temperatures are projected to range from the mid 70s to lower 80s.
The potential for rapid wildfire growth and spread is significantly heightened under these conditions, making outdoor burning not recommended. Residents are advised to be prepared and take necessary precautions to prevent any potential fire incidents.
The Fire Weather Watch is a precautionary notice that indicates such severe conditions are expected to occur. If the conditions escalate further, a Red Flag Warning may be issued by the National Weather Service.