Higher risk of rapid fire spread returns to the Hudson Valley as severe drought continues

The wind picks up through today with warmer temperatures in the 50s, but the wind will be even stronger with an even higher risk of fire spread tomorrow.

Matt Hammer

Nov 15, 2024, 11:37 AM

Updated 2 hr ago

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The Jennings Creek fire continues to burn in southern Orange County, New York and northern New Jersey, with nearly 70% containment on the New York side. While firefighters should be able to make even more progress today, the wind will gradually increase into the afternoon. This means there is once again an elevated risk of rapid fire spread today into tomorrow with any fire that starts across the lower Hudson Valley. Please avoid open flames and remember that there is an outdoor burn ban still in effect!
Otherwise, it will become sunny today and feel a bit warmer than the past few days with highs back in the mid to upper 50s this afternoon. Have a heavier coat again tonight into tomorrow morning, but overall, afternoon temperatures through the weekend will be warmer - in the lower 60s.
Unfortunately, there is still not a chance for significant wet weather. If anything, later Thursday into Friday of next week is our next best chance at some rain at this point.
FIRE SPREAD RISK: Becomes more elevated as wind gradually increases today. Open flames should not be used. Burn bans are in effect.
DROUGHT MONITOR: The lower Hudson Valley was upgraded to a severe drought yesterday.
LOCAL FOLIAGE: Widespread peak to past peak color with any leaves still left.
TROPICS: Tropical Storm Sara is moving along the north coast of Honduras, but there are certainly no threats to the lower Hudson Valley.
TODAY: Increasing sunshine after what was a cloudy start this morning. It will become windier again with gusts in the 20 mph range through the afternoon and evening. That means there will be an elevated risk of rapid fire spread again. Highs around 56.
TONIGHT: Clear, breezy and cold. Lows near 38.
SATURDAY: Mostly sunny, windy and a bit warmer with highs around 61. The fire spread risk will be high due to the increase in wind gusts between 20 and 35 mph. Lows near 38.
SUNDAY: Mostly sunny and not as windy with highs around 61 degrees. Lows near 42.
MONDAY: Partly sunny and breezy with just a small chance for a passing rain shower. Highs around 64. Lows around 44.
TUESDAY: Sun and clouds. Highs near 60. Lows near 42.
WEDNESDAY: Mainly sunny to partly cloudy. Highs around 58. Lows around 44.
THURSDAY: Becoming cloudy with showers developing. Highs around 56. Lows around 42.