Wind advisory, dangerous fire conditions alert in effect for today
Air quality health advisory also issued
The weather conditions today for Orleans County and Western New York make the area vulnerable to the rapid spread of wild fires, the National Weather Service said.
A red flag warning has been issued for WNY until 8 p.m. due to the wind and low humidity.
“The potential exists for rapid development and spread of wild fires or for prescribed burns to get out of control,” the Weather Service said. “Outdoor burning is not recommended.”
A New York State Burn Ban prohibits outdoor open burning between March 16 and May 14.
A wind advisory is in effect until 8 p.m. with southwest winds from 20 to 30 miles per hour with gusts up to 50 mph.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation also has issued an air quality health advisory today from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. for Orleans and several WNY counties.
Air quality levels in outdoor air are predicted to be greater than an air quality index value of 100 for ozone, the DEC said.
When pollution levels are elevated, the New York State Department of Health recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young and those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease.
