Red Flag Warning Issued for Knox, Stark, and Marshall Counties in North Central Illinois

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Lincoln has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity. This alert is in effect for North Central Illinois and replaces the previous Fire Weather Watch.

Affected Areas

The following counties are included in the warning area:

• Knox
• Stark
• Marshall

What You Should Do

Outdoor burning is not recommended during this period. A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. Residents should be aware that a combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. Any fire that develops will likely catch and spread quickly.

Expected Conditions

• 20 Foot Winds: Southwest winds of 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph.
• Relative Humidity: Humidity levels as low as 16 percent.
• 10-Hour Fuels: Fuel moisture levels less than 8 percent.

Timeline

The warning is effective from 10:00 AM CST this morning, February 18, until 8:00 PM CST this evening.