by VDC staff

State and federal officials are warning of near-critical fire weather conditions across much of Vermont and northern New York on Thursday, citing a combination of dry fuels, gusty winds, and low humidity.

According to a September 3 Special Weather Statement on the National Weather Service, the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation said fine fuels remain very dry, especially in the Champlain and Connecticut River valleys. Portions of central and northern Vermont and northern New York are also experiencing moderate drought.

Forecasters expect southerly winds of 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph likely. Localized gusts could reach 35 mph in north-south oriented valleys, particularly in the Champlain Valley and parts of northern New York. Relative humidity values are expected to drop between 25% and 35%, further heightening the risk.

The highest danger period will be from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday, when winds are strongest and humidity lowest. Officials warn that any fires that start could spread rapidly and be difficult to contain.

Communities under the elevated fire weather risk include Fort Covington, Malone, Champlain, Plattsburgh, Dannemora, Ellenburg, Port Henry, Ticonderoga, Alburgh, South Hero, St. Albans, Swanton, Derby, Newport, Island Pond, Lunenburg, Burlington, Shelburne, Johnson, Stowe, Hardwick, St. Johnsbury, Montpelier, Waitsfield, Middlebury, Vergennes, Bradford, Randolph, Fair Haven, Rutland, Enosburg Falls, Richford, Richmond, Underhill, Bristol, Ripton, East Wallingford, Killington, Bethel, Ludlow, Springfield, and White River Junction.

Conditions are expected to improve Thursday night as forecasters gain confidence in the arrival of wetting rainfall.