The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for southwest Minnesota this afternoon into the evening.  Strong westerly winds 30 to 35 mph gusting up to 50 mph along with very low humidity are expected this afternoon. In these dry conditions, wildfires that develop are likely to spread rapidly. Today is not a day to burn. 

The Red Flag Warning is in effect today from 1:00 pm until 7:00 pm. 

Counties included in the Red Flag Warning: Brown, Cottonwood, Jackson, Lincoln, Lyon, Martin, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Rock, Watonwan, and Yellow Medicine Counties.  

In addition, effective immediately, the Brown County Sheriff’s Office has issued a BURNING BAN for all of Brown County. This BURNING BAN is in effect for Wednesday October 14, 2020 only.

The Minnesota Interagency Fire Center urges everyone to be careful with any potential heat source that can cause a spark. We are asking everyone to do their part and not burn during these dry conditions.