ELEVATED RISK OF WILDFIRE SPREAD THIS AFTERNOON ACROSS SOUTHERN PENNSYLVANIA, THE LOWER SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY AND WESTERN POCONOS...

A combination of low relative humidity, dry fine fuels and leaf litter along with a moderately gusty west to southwest wind up to around 20 mph at times will create an elevated risk of wildfire spread across South-Central Pennsylvania, the Lower Susquehanna Valley and the Western Poconos late this morning through the afternoon hours.

Minimum relative humidity values will be in the low 20 percent range, accompanied by full sunshine and wind gusts between in the teens at times.

Residents are urged to exercise caution if handling any potential ignition sources, such as machinery, cigarettes, or matches. If dry grasses and tree litter begin to burn, the fire will have the potential to spread rapidly.

For more information about wildfire danger and wildfire prevention and education, please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website at http://dcnr.pa.gov/Communities/Wildfire.