IDAHO — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a red flag warning, meaning a high risk of fire, for southeastern Idaho, effective the afternoon of Thursday, July 11.
NWS in Pocatello warned of “gusty winds and low relative humidity” predicted to hit the southeastern region of the state, ranging from Shoshone through Idaho falls to Driggs on the eastern edge of the area, and north to just above Dubois. The warning will be in effect from 2 to 9 p.m.
Winds are expected to reach 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph, and relative humidity could get as low as 10 percent, the agency warned. This sets up ideal conditions for fires.
“A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly based on these criteria for Southeastern Idaho,” NWS said in its alert.
When a red flag warning is in effect, residents are advised to take the following precautions:
- Burn barrels (if allowed) must be covered with a weighted metal cover with holes under 3/4 inches.
- Don’t toss cigarettes or matches out of moving vehicles, as they could ignite dry grass on the roadside.
- Extinguish all outdoor fires properly by dousing them in water and do not leave them unattended until they are cold. Do not throw live charcoal on the ground.
