Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Excessive Heat Watch and RED FLAG Warning

New Information on COOLING SHELTERS (Updated 08/14/2008, 5:45 PM)

The Columbian newspaper has cooling center information for those who need relief HERE!

Excessive Heat Warning

National Weather Service is forecasting some pretty warm temperatures for this weekend. CRESA Emergency Management has monitored their website and it looks like a 3 day event, with Friday being the warmest day. The weekend appears to be cooler.

Nevertheless, it will be warm, so remember to use some common sense around heat-related events:
1) minimize direct sun exposure
2) drink plenty of water & stay hydrated
3) wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen
4) monitor those you know who may be at high risk for excessive exposure
5) dress infants and children in cool, loose clothing and protect their heads when outdoors
6) leave fresh water for pets and animals, in a shady place, if possible

For the most up-to-date forecast information, feel free to check www.weather.gov/portland.

Red Flag Warning



According to the http://www.fs.fed.us/, (USDA Forest Service) a RED FLAG Warning is the term used by fire-weather forecasters to call attention to limited weather conditions of particular importance that may result in extreme burning conditions. It is issued when it is an on-going event or the fire weather forecaster has a high degree of confidence that Red Flag criteria will occur within 24 hours of issuance. Red Flag criteria occurs whenever a geographical area has been in a dry spell for a week or two, or for a shorter period, if before spring green-up or after fall color, and the NFDRS is high to extreme and the following forecast weather parameters are forecasted to met:




  • sustained wind average 15 mph or greater.

  • Relative humidity less than or equal to 25%, and

  • 10 hour fuel moisture less than 8%



During a red flag warning, forest users are strongly urged to consider alternatives to a campfire. Never burn debris when a red flag warning is in effect. It can so easily get out of control, and you can be held liable for suppression costs.





No comments: