A warm, dry weekend means fire weather is likely the next couple of days, especially with gusty winds expected Sunday, May 11.
Most of Northern Minnesota is under a fire weather watch, and red flag warnings may also be issued.
Nathan Lynum, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Duluth, said the winds and low humidity aren't that unusual for this time of year. The same can't be said for the heat.
“We're kind of approaching what would be like an only 1 in 10 times would we exceed the temperatures that we're going to be seeing," he said. " ... Very rarely do we get into the mid-80s here in the Northland in early to mid-May.”
Dry conditions will likely remain through the week, Lynum said, with chances of rain increasing next Thursday and Friday.
The weather service said with the fishing opener this weekend, they expect more people in remote locations, in addition to the increased agricultural and recreational activities this time of year.
Be extra cautious using outdoor equipment this busy weekend; avoid equipment that creates sparks, check for dragging chains and keep equipment out of dry grass. Also, avoid outdoor burning and don’t carelessly discard cigarettes. If you see fire or smoke, call 911.
The weather service is also sharing the hazards of cold water and early-season swimming. Ice out only recently occurred for some lakes, and inland lakes and Lake Superior haven't yet warmed up.
“Even when the air is hot, the water is, of course, cold," Lynum said. "So we want to remind folks to wear a life vest when out on the boats as you go into an active weekend and then early next week. Just something to be aware of.”
Minnesota saw its first Canadian wildfire smoke of the season Friday. A narrow band of dense smoke descended from the northwest, impairing air quality for a few hours before dissipating.
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