A combination of seasonably warm temperatures, dry air, and gusty winds will produce elevated fire weather conditions this afternoon across much of north-central and western Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota, and northeast Iowa, according to the National Weather Service office in La Crosse.

“Relative humidity will be as low as 15 to 25 percent, mainly across portions of western and central Wisconsin. Southerly winds of 15 to 20 mph will gust to 25 to 35 mph, strongest west of the Mississippi River. Avoid any outdoor burning in these conditions and report any wildfires by dialing 911,” says a note on the NWS website

“Outdoor enthusiasts should use caution with off-road vehicles or equipment that can create a spark and start a fire. Extreme care should also be taken with campfires and smoking material.”