Red flag warning in effect

A red flag warning has been issued by the National Weather Service effective through 11 p.m.

Forecasters say low pressure moving across Western Nevada is bringing widespread wind conditions this afternoon and evening. Expect southwest winds of 15-25 mph with gusts of up to 45 mph. Ridges above 7,000 feet will see higher gusts.

Humidity levels are near 15 percent in the Valley. The combination of strong winds and low humidity will result in critical fire weather conditions.

The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management have instituted fire restrictions for central and northern Nevada, including parts of Lyon and Washoe counties.

"The extraordinary buildup of cheat grass and other fine fuels caused by the moisture we received this past winter and spring has increased the risk of wildfires and raised concern among local fire officials, but we would still like to accommodate the public's desire to recreate on public lands when and where we can by issuing campfire permits in appropriate locations," said BLM Winnemucca Fire Management Officer Jeff Fedrizzi.

The BLM and Forest Service strongly encourage all visitors to the Public Lands and Forest Service Lands to carry a shovel, one-to-five gallons of water, and a fire extinguisher.

*Do not build a fire, campfire, or stove fire (including NO charcoal fires) outside of a developed fee campground or picnic area except by permit (during periods of official fire restrictions, though this is good advice throughout the year); portable stoves using gas or pressurized liquid fuel are ok, but use them only in a cleared area and take great care when you light them;

*Do not smoke, except within an enclosed vehicle or at a developed campground or picnic area;

*Forget about welding or operating an acetylene torch with open flames, except by permit;

*No use of explosives is allowed, except by permit;

*Do not possess or use any fireworks, or any other incendiary device; turn them over to a sheriff's or fire department office for proper disposal;

*Do not use tracer rounds, steel-core ammunition or exploding targets while recreational shooting;

*No open burning (e.g. weeds, brush and yard debris) is allowed.