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How dry we are! Red Flag Warnings explained

Media Services
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Northern Illinois University

A large portion of northern Illinois was under a “red flag warning” Tuesday.  But what does that mean? On Tuesday afternoon, WNIJ’s Susan Stephens called Northern Illinois University meteorologist Gilbert Sebenste to get an explanation.

Sebenste says a red flag warning is issued when high temperatures, low humidity, and winds combine to create a serious danger of brush or forest fires.

  • Winds must exceed 15 mph
  • Relative humidity has to be below 25%
  • There must be at least a few weeks of very dry conditions

Listen to the interview with Sebenste to hear how to behave while under a red flag warning, as well his forecast for some relief this week. 

Susan is an award-winning reporter/writer at her favorite radio station. She's also WNIJ's Perspectives editor, Under Rocks contributor, and local host of All Things Considered.
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