BUFFALO, N.Y. — Even this gorgeous stretch of sunny and mild weather comes at a price. With gusty winds, dry soil, and low humidity this week, there's an elevated fire risk across much of the Northeast, including Western New York.
A Red Flag Warning has been issued for McKean and Potter counties in northern Pennsylvania from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday. With a gusty westerly breeze, low humidity, and dry soil, there is an increased risk for rapid wildfire growth. Prescribed burns may get out of control.
Similar conditions are present too for Western New York Tuesday and Wednesday, though no weather alerts have been issued. For Buffalo and areas north, the risk is minimal with the ground still somewhat saturated. There is some risk across the Southern Tier. Farther east across the Northeast, Red Flag Warnings warn of this danger.
Tuesday afternoon in Lyndon, The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Division of Forest Protection (DFP) responded shortly before 3 p.m. on April 11 regarding a wildfire along Abbott Road. Firefighters from nine volunteer fire companies also responded along with emergency medical personnel. Preliminary investigation revealed that a resident burning cardboard may have sparked the blaze that quickly consumed dry grass and leaves. The fire covered roughly 10.8 acres. Fire departments were able to contain the fire shortly before 4:30 p.m. Charges are pending further investigation by DFP.
Keep in mind the statewide burn ban across New York is in place until May 14.