A Fire Weather Watch has been issued for all of Southwest Florida from Monday morning through Monday evening.
Following the continued stretch of dry weather, fire danger levels are increasing. The National Weather Service has issued the watch ahead of critical conditions expected on Monday.
A Fire Weather Watch is declared when a combination of low humidity, dry conditions, and breezy winds creates the potential for rapid fire growth. All of these elements will be in place as a cold front moves south Sunday afternoon.
Northwest winds are forecast to increase to 10–20 mph, with higher gusts possible at times.
Southwest Florida is already experiencing very dry conditions, and the addition of low dewpoints and gusty winds will further elevate the fire threat.
This watch means that critical fire weather conditions are possible, and any fires that ignite could spread quickly.
Burn bans remain in effect for all counties across Southwest Florida.
The Weather Authority team will continue to keep you updated on the latest all week long as fire dangers remain elevated.