National Weather Service warns against outdoor burning, game commission prohibits camp fires as dry conditions linger

Exceptionally dry weather and wind gusts have created an increased brush fire danger, the National Weather Service warned in a special weather statement.

It has been nearly a month since the Pittsburgh region has seen a “wetting” rain of at least one-tenth of an inch, meteorologist Bill Modzelewski said. The last time there was at least that much rain was on Oct. 6.

That means fuels such as leaves, sticks and twigs are dried out. Combined with low humidity levels, there is an increased risk for fires to spread.

Because of that, the weather service is recommending that residents avoid open burning and use extra caution with activities involving open flames or sparks.

Westmoreland County reported three brush fires Monday in Washington Township, Cook Township and Hempfield. Armstrong County reported one in Gilpin.

An Allegheny County dispatcher declined to provide any information on brush fire calls.

On Tuesday, the Pennsylvania Game Commission issued a statement prohibiting camp fires on all state game lands. While overnight camping is prohibited on game lands, regulations usually allow small fires for cooking. Under state regulations, the game commission can ban such fires when the risk of forest or brush fires is high.

The announcement said fires will be prohibited indefinitely or until conditions improve.

While the humidity was expected to be higher on Tuesday, wind gusts of 20 to 25 mph also were expected, Modzelewski said.

Showers were expected with the approach of a cold front Tuesday night into Wednesday that could deliver rainfall of one-tenth to one-third of an inch, but Modzelewski said that will not significantly improve drought conditions.

There are additional chances for rain next weekend, especially on Sunday, and off-and-on chances for showers next week, he said.