Low relative humidity and windy conditions make it easy for fire to spread. That's why a red flag warning remains in effect for Berkshire County.

While unseasonable temperatures this week are sort of energizing folks who hate the winter and being stuck inside, one must heed the warning.

My father in law recently was cooking over his outside fire when nearby leaves inadvertently caught fire. He had water on hand and was able to snuff the flames, but he was starkly reminded of how fast that can happen.

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It's been nearly a week since we had rain and although red flag warnings are rare, they should be taken very seriously.

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now....or will shortly. A combination of strong winds...low relative humidity...and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

Just like anyone else, I enjoy an outside fire, but now is not the time. Open burning season in Massachusetts ends on May 1.

Berkshire County Weather:

Wednesday: Mostly sunny. High 71F. Winds WNW at 10 to 20 mph.

Wednesday night: A clear sky. Low 51F. Winds W at 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday: Sunny skies. High 81F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph.

Thursday night: Partly cloudy. Low 54F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.

Friday: Intervals of clouds and sunshine. Near record high temperatures. High 82F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.

Friday night: Partly cloudy. Low 53F. Winds light and variable.

Saturday: Cloudy. High near 75F. Winds ESE at 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday night: Cloudy in the evening, then off and on rain showers after midnight. Low 49F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.

Information courtesy of weather.com

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