News

Fall drought brings elevated fire concerns

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service says the northern two thirds of Illinois is facing a moderate drought.

Kirk Huettl, who’s based at NWS’ Lincoln office, tells Brownfield…

“Part of our area like Lincoln, Peoria and Springfield, have only had about an inch of rainfall since September 1st, which is running about four to five inches below normal,” he says.

The dry weather has allowed farmers to harvest at an impressive pace, but Huettl says the conditions have led to several field fires.

“Humidity levels are coming in as low as 30% by early afternoon, with the really dry vegetation and crops out there, it’s enhancing the fire danger levels,” he says.

He says short-term forecasts show a few scattered chances of rain, but the long-term outlook is promising.

“On a plus side, we’re trending above normal precipitation across much of the Midwest, including Illinois, by as much as 40 to 50% chance.”  He says, “That would be from October 29th through November 4th.”

Huettl says forecasts are calling for temperatures to remain above normal for at least the next two weeks.   

AUDIO: Kirk Huettl – National Weather Service

Image courtesy of National Weather Service