Strong winds trigger red flag warning for Northern MN, blowing dust in NW

All of Northern Minnesota is under a red flag warning Thursday and Friday, May 14-15, due to extreme fire risk conditions.

The National Weather Service issued a warning for all but southeastern Minnesota. The warnings will end overnight Thursday before resuming Friday until 9 p.m.

A red flag warning means fires can spread quickly and grow out of control under the predicted weather conditions, including strong winds and low relative humidity.

Southwest winds of 15-20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph are expected in northeastern and north-central Minnesota, with humidity as low as 19%. In western Minnesota, south winds are between 25-35 mph, with gusts 45-55 mph.

Kittson, Norman, west Marshall and west Polk counties are under a blowing dust advisory until 5 p.m., with blowing dust warnings possible. The weather service said dust could cause low visibility, resulting in hazardous driving conditions.

Be ready for a sudden drop in visibility to near zero. If you encounter blowing dust or blowing sand on the roadway or see it approaching, pull off the road as far as possible and put your vehicle in park. Turn the lights all the way off and keep your foot off the brake pedal. Remember, "Pull Aside, Stay Alive."

Dust could impact air quality as far east as Beltrami, Wadena and Lake of the Woods counties. Consider wearing a face covering or keeping windows closed. The weather service said those with respiratory problems should make preparations to stay indoors until a dust storm passes.

Blowing dust could return Friday in northwestern Minnesota.

The weather service said near-critical fire conditions could continue into Saturday.

Residents should not burn in counties where a red flag warning is in effect and should also check any recent burning they did to ensure the fire is completely out. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources will not issue or activate open burning permits for large vegetative debris burning and discourages campfires during the red flag warning.

People should use caution when doing activities that can cause sparks or heat near vegetation by securing trailer chains, parking all-terrain vehicles on gravel or pavement and using chain saws or other equipment outside of the red flag warning hours.

For more information and daily updates on current fire risk and open burning restrictions, visit the statewide fire danger and burning restrictions page of the DNR website.

To receive text updates on current fire risk and open burning restrictions in Minnesota text “FIRE” to 66468.