RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 7PM TONIGHT FOR PORTIONS OF SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

The National Weather Service in Paducah has issued a RED FLAG WARNING in effect until 7pm tonight (Friday) for portions of Southern Illinois.  Southwest winds will return today along with warmer temperatures.  Afternoon relative humidity values will fall to 25 to 30 percent with southwest winds gusting to 25 to 35 mph. This will couple with dry fuels to lead to an elevated risk of wildfire and brushfire growth and spread today.  Outdoor burning is NOT recommended this afternoon.