SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, (WINK)—Get ready for some changes today. Temperatures are starting off a few degrees cooler as drier air filters in, but this change to our weather comes with some important safety concerns.
The Weather Authority's Katie Walls said, "We have strong, gusty winds, and factor that in with dry air in place, especially this afternoon, and your humidity in some locations will even be dropping below 30%. That's what will set us up for that elevated fire risk."
Gusty winds and low humidity will create the perfect setup for wildfires to spark and spread quickly.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. for Lee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties, while a Fire Weather Watch covers Collier, Hendry, and Glades counties during the same time frame.
What does that actually mean for you?
Conditions are dry and windy with gusts up to 30 mph. Humidity levels will hover around 30% this afternoon.
That combination makes it much easier for fires to start, and much harder to control them once they do.
Even something small, like a discarded cigarette could become a bigger problem fast. Burning is not advised.
The cold front that moved through yesterday is giving us a bit of relief. It won’t be “cool,” but it will feel more comfortable.
Highs today will reach the mid-80s, and the drop in humidity will make a noticeable difference compared to the muggier days we’ve had recently.
Winds will stay elevated through tonight with gusts up to 22 mph before calming down to around 10 mph tomorrow.
If you’re heading out on the water, take note: a Small Craft Advisory remains in effect through 8 a.m. tomorrow with Gulf seas expected between 6 to 9 feet.
Tomorrow morning will start off a bit cooler, with temperatures dipping into the upper 50s and low 60s, a refreshing change for this time of year.
Afternoon highs will climb back into the mid-80s, but the lower humidity sticks around, keeping things relatively comfortable.
Expect plenty of sunshine early, with clouds building in later in the day.
The next chance for isolated showers and storms arrives Friday.
