Red Flag Warning Issued for Central and Southeast Missouri Through Thursday Evening

Alert Details

A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service in St. Louis, MO. The alert is in effect for Thursday, February 19, due to critical fire weather conditions that increase the risk of wildfires.

Affected Areas

The warning covers portions of central, east central, northeast, south central, and southeast Missouri. Specific counties included in the alert area are:

• Monroe
• Boone
• Audrain
• Moniteau
• Cole
• Osage
• Callaway
• Gasconade
• Franklin
• Crawford
• Washington
• Dent
• Iron
• Reynolds

What You Should Do

Outdoor burning is not recommended during this period. Any fires that develop under these conditions will spread rapidly and become difficult to control. Residents and officials are urged to exercise extreme caution and advise appropriate fire crews in the field regarding the warning.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: Southwest winds ranging from 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching as high as 35 mph.
• Relative Humidity: Levels are expected to fall between 15 and 25 percent.
• Impacts: The combination of strong winds and low humidity creates a high risk for rapid fire growth and spread.

Timeline

The Red Flag Warning is effective starting at 12:00 PM CST on Thursday, February 19, and is scheduled to expire at 8:00 PM CST the same evening.