How to prepare for brush fires during dry, windy conditions Claire Overton — WWLP

Brush fires continue to be a concern across the state.

FEEDING HILLS, Mass. (WWLP) – Brush fires continue to be a concern across the state.

Fortunately, none of those brush fires are still burning on Monday in western Massachusetts, but it is important to note that it is possible.

Our entire region is currently under notice from the National Weather Service for elevated fire concerns. That’s issued when there are warm temperatures, very low humidity, and stronger winds. All of these conditions combined increase the risk of fire danger.

A Red Flag Warning was also issued this weekend that covered most of the northeast. That is an even higher level of warning for fires spreading. 

There is currently a brush fire burning in Connecticut, for a second straight week. According to the Berlin, Connecticut fire chief, the fire was caused by a campfire reigniting, but it doesn’t appear to be malicious, just careless.

When we look at the weather we have been experiencing, in September and October, we saw below-average rainfall. In nearly 60 days across September and October, we saw 1.32 inches of rainfall at Westover Airbase in Chicopee.

With the average rainfall for the last two months being 7.5 inches, much of western Massachusetts is in a 6.18-inch rainfall deficit. The last measurable rainfall we saw was two weeks ago on October 14 which was .32 inches of rain.

There are some steps you can take for your safety. It is important to prepare your home if there is a concern for a brush fire. Create a fire-resistant zone around your house and remove all flammable materials, this could include yard decorations like Halloween or Christmas decor.

Especially in these dry conditions, we are experiencing, it is important to choose the right time if you plan on mowing your lawn. Avoid the dry and windy conditions and instead choose the cooler morning hours.

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