Red Flag Warning Issued for Western Massachusetts Due to High Brush Fire Risk

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire counties in western Massachusetts from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday. This alert indicates an extreme fire risk as dry conditions combine with high winds, which can cause any fires to spread quickly and become hard to control.

Weather Conditions and Precautions

Wind gusts are expected to reach 30 mph by late morning through early afternoon, significantly elevating fire risks across the region. Residents are strongly advised to avoid any outdoor burning, as embers could easily ignite dry brush. Additionally, caution is urged with smoking materials—ensure they are fully extinguished before disposal.

Forecast Details

• Tuesday: Mostly sunny with highs in the upper 40s to low 50s. Wind gusts up to 30 mph.
• Tuesday Night: Clear and breezy with temperatures dropping to the low-to-mid 20s.
• Wednesday: Sunny with high temperatures in the 40s, followed by continued cooling into Thursday.

The combination of dry air, high winds, and relatively mild temperatures is expected to persist, prolonging the fire risk. Residents should monitor local advisories and exercise extreme caution until conditions improve.