Increased fire danger could be extinguished with showers in forecast

Despite a chance of showers this evening, the National Weather Service issued another special weather statement this morning about increased fire danger.

A front expected to move through the region will bring gusty winds, according to the statement posted on the National Weather Service Web site. The winds, combined with the dry conditions increase the chance of wildfires.

Winds will be out of the southwest at 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph, the statement says. Temperatures should be in the upper 70s and could reach 80.

The weather service is reminding residents that burning within 300 feet of woodland or dry grass is prohibited before 4 p.m. and was recommending that burning be put off until after 6 p.m.

Showers are expected after 8 p.m. and temperatures should drop to the upper 40s.