Sometimes the abundance of sunshine and clear skies can be dangerous. The National Weather Service in Mobile has issued a Red Flag Warning for our area today, Saturday, indicating critical fire weather conditions across the region. Forecasters expect dry air and gusty northeast winds that could quickly spread any fire. Officials are reminding residents that we are currently under a burn ban. Even small campfires could become uncontrollable. If you see smoke or fire, please report it immediately to local authorities.

The Red Flag Warning will be in effect from late Saturday morning, March 28, through Saturday evening, March 28. It includes interior southeast Mississippi, southwest and south-central Alabama, and the western Florida Panhandle. The warning covers a wide area stretching from Choctaw County, Alabama, to Okaloosa County, Florida, and parts of southern Mississippi, including Baldwin County, Alabama, and Escambia County, Florida.

A heightened risk of grass, brush, and forest fires is expected due to dry and windy conditions. Winds from the northeast are forecast at 10 to 15 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 30 mph. A drop in relative humidity, possibly as low as 20 percent, will create conditions that allow fires to ignite and spread easily.

“The combination of gusty northeast winds and very low humidity means even a small spark could turn into a fast-moving fire,” a local fire official said. “We are asking everyone to hold off on outdoor burning until conditions improve.”

A gale warning is also in effect for coastal waters off Alabama and the western Florida Panhandle, where strong marine winds are expected to create hazardous conditions for boaters. Inexperienced mariners, especially those in smaller vessels, are urged to stay in port and avoid navigating in these conditions. Waves could capsize small boats, and loose items on board may shift or be lost, increasing the risk of injury or damage. Boaters who must be on the water should monitor VHF Channel 16 and check the latest marine forecasts for rapidly changing conditions.