Lower Hudson Valley, NYC, Long Island under red flag warning

The National Weather Service issued a wildfire warning for Westchester, Rockland and Putnam counties on Friday, Nov. 1, due to dry and windy conditions in the region.

The red flag warning is in effect for the Lower Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island on Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

What is an alert?

“A Red Flag Warning is issued to indicate the imminent threat of severe fire weather with a relatively high probability of occurrence,” the National Weather Service website says, noting that fire danger is typically “in the very high to extreme category ” lies.

National Weather Service meteorologist Bill Goodman says the risk of wildfires increases with windy conditions and low humidity.

“There is a combination of relative humidity and wind, as well as 'dry fuels' such as pine needles and dry grass, that can lead to the rapid growth and spread of a wildfire,” Goodman said.

As of 10 a.m., temporary burn bans are in effect for Putnam and Rockland counties after wildfires burned in Kent and Harriman State Park in Hillburn on Saturday, Oct. 26, and Sunday, Oct. 27.

“In light of the recent large mountain bushfire in Hillburn and several other smaller bushfires across the county, a ban on all open fires is necessary at this time. Dry conditions make our open spaces, including residential neighborhoods, incredibly vulnerable to fires,” Rockland County Fire and Emergency Services Director Chris Kear said. “By reducing potential ignition sources, we can prevent dangerous situations and protect both life and property.”

Will it rain in the Lower Hudson Valley on Friday?

According to the National Weather Service, Westchester and Rockland counties have received a total of 0.07 inches of rain since Oct. 7, one of the longest dry spells in the history of the Lower Hudson Valley.

The region received 0.03 inches of rain on October 7 and 0.04 inches of rain on October 29. However, there is a 20 percent chance of light rain through Friday afternoon.

Wind speeds of 10 to 20 mph are expected throughout the day, with some gusts possibly reaching 30 to 40 mph. Humidity is expected to be low, around 35% or less.

“There are still some concerns, but the risk will be significantly lower,” he said. “It's probably a good idea to avoid any outdoor burning and to put out things like cigarettes or fireplace embers. Don’t just throw them out the window of your car or into the bushes where they could ignite.”

How to protect your property from wildfire damage

The NYSDEC offers these tips to prevent wildfires from spreading and protect your home from damage:

When renovating or building a home, use fire-resistant materials for roofing or exterior walls.
Build fences using non-combustible materials and ensure they are not attached directly to your home.
Remove branches, leaves and twigs from overhangs and gutters.
Make sure everything within 30 feet of your home is “sleek, clean and green.” Keep lawns well watered and free of vegetation, dirt and clutter.
Mow your lawn regularly and dispose of raked leaves. Keep firewood 30 feet away from your home during fire season.
Store all flammable materials such as gas tanks, paint and sprays in your garage or basement, not under porches or decks.
Find an outdoor water source with a hose that can reach every area of your property.
Create an evacuation plan for your household in case of an emergency.

To report a wildfire, call 911. Visit fema.gov to submit a disaster assistance application or find emergency response centers.

(This story has been updated to add new information.)

Lower Hudson Valley, NYC, Long Island under red flag warning

What is an alert?

Will it rain in the Lower Hudson Valley on Friday?

How to protect your property from wildfire damage

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