Poughkeepsie… Dutchess County Executive William R. Steinhaus is advising Dutchess County residents to refrain from all outdoor burning including burn barrels and outdoor fireplaces due to heightened fire danger as a result of warmer temperatures and lack of rain.  

“Residents need to be aware the warm, dry weather conditions have increased the potential for fire danger, particularly brush fires.     All residents are advised to avoid all outdoor burning in order to prevent serious fire situations,” said County Executive Steinhaus. 

According to the National Weather Service (Albany office), a FIRE WEATHER WATCH is in effect for Dutchess County from Thursday afternoon through Thursday evening.     A cold front is expected to pass across the region late on Wednesday with only limited rain activity.    Drier air will follow and increased winds will develop Thursday afternoon.    Low humidity and wind gusts in excess of 20 mph afternoon will increase the potential risk for fire weather conditions.

DC Emergency Response officials have notified local fire departments to be on heightened alert as a result of the Fire Weather Watch.    The Department of Emergency Response will continue to closely monitor weather conditions.   A National Weather Service conference call is expected to be held mid-day on Wednesday for more accurate updates.       An official ban on outdoor burning will be considered if conditions warrant.

Residents can log on http://www.erh.noaa.gov/aly/ for the most up-to-date weather information and advisories from the Albany office of the National Weather Service.