By: Richard L. Smith
Meteorologists at the National Weather Center are warning New Jersey residents of a 'Red Flag Warning' today as temperatures elevate to a high of 64 degrees.
According to forecasters at the National Weather Service, the warning is in effect from 11 AM to 8 PM for much of NJ, including Essex, Bergen, and Hudson counties.
While the day may be sunny and warm, the Red Flag Warning indicates an elevated risk of fire danger due to a combination of strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures.
The National Weather Service urges residents to be cautious with outdoor burning, including campfires, cooking fires, and smoking materials.
The winds are expected to pick up throughout the day, with a west wind of 7 to 12 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the morning.
This, coupled with the low humidity of 55%, creates the ideal conditions for wildfires to spread quickly.
Forecasters said the barometer reading for the day is 29.98, indicating high atmospheric pressure. Wind speed is expected to be 9 mph, blowing from the southwest.
Meteorologists at The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation throughout the day and update residents if further advisories or warnings are issued.