Dry air mass and breezy conditions will combine with dead and dry fuels such as grass, leaves, and twigs to create the potential for uncontrolled fire spread across most of New Hampshire and western Maine on Wednesday, September 16, 2020. 

“Please use extra caution due to increased fire danger. Fire danger today, on a 1-5 scale, is rated 4: Very High,” said Chief Mark Klose, Rochester Fire Department. “Due to the low humidity and drought conditions, Rochester FD is asking the community to not use their seasonal fire pits, or burn brush. Also, please use extra care when discarding smoking material such as cigarettes. Please do not throw cigarettes into bark mulch.”

Relative humidity values will decrease to low levels between 30-40%. At the same time, southwest winds between 10-15 mph, with frequent gusts to 25mph, will continue to dry fuels and increase the potential of fire spread. Wind gusts are expected to diminish later in the evening with increasing relative humidity values. Extra caution should be taken to prevent wildfires. 

Always consult with local fire officials before engaging in any open burning activities and comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Contact the Rochester Fire Department at (603) 603-335-7545 for more information and inquiries.