Red Flag Warning

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT FOR PORTIONS OF SOUTHERN AND WESTERN PUERTO RICO...

.A RED FLAG WARNING has been issued for today across portions of southern and western Puerto Rico, where the greatest fire danger is expected from late morning through the afternoon. Expect breezy east to east-southeast winds and strong gusts, as well as low relative humidities, creating a high risk of fire weather conditions. These conditions combined with critically dry fuels will promote the rapid spreading of any fire that develops.

The National Weather Service in San Juan has issued a Red Flag Warning, which is in effect until 5 PM AST this afternoon.

* AFFECTED AREA...The coastal plains and hills of southern and western Puerto Rico.

* WIND...East to east-southeast at 15 to 23 mph, with stronger gusts around 30 mph.

* HUMIDITY...Relative humidity values from the mid 40 to low 50s.

* IMPACTS...any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.