A Red Flag Warning has been issued across several regions in the United States on March 28, 2025, due to a combination of warm temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, raising significant concerns for wildfire risks. The National Weather Service (NWS) has highlighted these dangerous fire conditions in multiple states, including Nebraska, Florida, and Minnesota.
In Eastern Nebraska and portions of Southwest Iowa, a Red Flag Warning will be in effect from noon until 8 PM today. Winds are expected to blow out of the southwest at speeds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph. Relative humidity levels are projected to drop as low as 25 percent, creating an environment where any fires that ignite could spread rapidly. The NWS warns that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly, with near-record highs anticipated in the upper 80s. The previous record for Lincoln, Nebraska, was set at 90 degrees back in 1895.
As the day progresses, the potential for severe storms also looms, with most areas expected to receive some rain. However, the forecast indicates a significant drop in temperatures over the weekend, with highs expected to be in the mid-60s on Saturday and the mid-40s on Sunday. Residents are urged to refrain from outdoor burning during this critical period.
Meanwhile, in Southwest Florida, a Red Flag Warning is also in effect from noon to 7 PM today for areas including Lee, DeSoto, Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte counties. Here, sustained winds exceeding 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph, combined with warm temperatures and low humidity, are creating dangerous fire conditions. The NWS stated that these conditions, coupled with large quantities of dry fuels, can lead to extreme fire behavior, prompting officials to recommend against outdoor burning.
The affected areas in Florida encompass a wide range, including Sumter, Pinellas, Polk, Hardee, and several coastal regions. With the fire risk heightened, residents are reminded to exercise caution and stay informed about local conditions.
In Tampa Bay, the situation mirrors that of Southwest Florida, with a Red Flag Warning in place due to low humidity and gusty winds. Temperatures are expected to soar back into the mid-80s today, setting the stage for elevated fire danger across the Gulf Coast. The weekend forecast indicates a mix of dry, sunny conditions on Saturday, with highs in the mid to upper 80s, followed by the possibility of showers and storms developing mainly inland after 5 PM. Sunday is anticipated to be stormy and milder, with temperatures dropping to the low 80s.
In a related development, parts of southwest Minnesota are also under a Red Flag Warning today, with conditions similar to those reported in other regions. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued warnings for Cottonwood, Jackson, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, and Rock Counties from noon to 8 PM. The DNR emphasizes that with warm temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity, the risk of wildfires is significantly elevated. Residents are advised against burning and should ensure that any recent burning they have done is completely extinguished.
Karen Harrison, a wildfire prevention specialist at the DNR, stated, “When fire risk is this high, it’s important to be careful with anything that could spark a wildfire.” The DNR will not issue or activate open burning permits for large vegetative debris during the Red Flag Warning, and campfires are discouraged. Fortunately, widespread rain is expected on Saturday, which should help to reduce fire danger temporarily.
Across the country, these warnings highlight the importance of fire safety as conditions can change rapidly. The NWS and local authorities encourage residents to stay vigilant and informed about fire risks in their areas. For the latest updates on fire conditions and safety measures, residents can visit the National Weather Service website and their local DNR sites.
As the weather continues to fluctuate, individuals are reminded to take precautions to prevent wildfires and to be mindful of the conditions that can lead to such dangerous situations. The combination of high winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures serves as a stark reminder of the potential for fire hazards during this time of year.
