Weather service issues fire warning; burning ban in effect.

Weather service issues fire warning; burning ban in effect.

GRAND RAPIDS — The National Weather Service has issued a “red flag” fire warning that includes Oceana, Mason, and Manistee counties, effective at 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 1. The area is currently under a “watch” until 8 p.m. tonight.

Winds from the southwest at 10 to 20 mph today are expected to increase to 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph on Tuesday. Today’s relative humidity is expected to be as low as 15 percent and 25 to 35 percent Tuesday. Temperatures today will reach the lower ’70s and are expected to be 75 to 80 degrees in parts of the area Tuesday afternoon and early evening.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly. The combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

The burning of open debris is currently not permitted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.