Tampa, Florida: Forecasters are warning of elevated wildfire danger across Central West Florida on Monday after the National Weather Service issued a fire weather watch covering a broad stretch of the region.
The watch is scheduled to run from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, when dry air and gusty northwest winds are expected to combine to create conditions favorable for fast moving fires.
According to the forecast, sustained winds are expected between 10 and 15 mph, with gusts reaching up to 25 mph. Relative humidity could fall as low as 21 percent in some areas, a level that significantly dries out vegetation.
Counties under the watch
The alert covers multiple Gulf Coast and inland counties, including Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando, Citrus, Polk, Manatee, Sarasota, Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Charlotte and Lee counties.
Meteorologists said the most dangerous window will likely occur during the midday and afternoon hours when humidity bottoms out and winds peak.
What a fire weather watch means
A fire weather watch signals that critical fire conditions are possible but not yet certain. Officials said the notice could be upgraded to a Red Flag Warning if forecast conditions continue to worsen.
The National Weather Service warned that the combination of low humidity, warm temperatures and gusty winds can allow fires to ignite easily and spread rapidly, sometimes faster than crews can contain them.
Safety guidance for residents
Authorities are urging residents to avoid outdoor burning and to use extra caution with equipment that could spark flames. Even small embers from cigarettes or machinery can ignite dry grass under these conditions.
Anyone who spots smoke or fire is urged to contact emergency services immediately rather than attempting to investigate on their own.
Forecasters will continue monitoring conditions through the weekend and may issue updates if the risk level changes before Monday.
