The Maine Forest Service and the National Weather Service have issued a red flag warning for the entire state of Maine (http://www.erh.noaa.gov/car/local_hazards.php).
This warning has been in effect since 11 a.m. today, June 1, and will last until 6 p.m. this evening. It is based on weather conditions, and the recent lack of precipitation in most areas.
The gusty winds and low relative humidity’s have created dangerous conditions that could allow wildfires to spread rapidly. The fire danger rating in most of Maine is considered “very high” (www.maineburnpermit.com).
The Maine Forest Service urges all citizens to postpone their outdoor burning (including campfires) until we get a significant rainfall. In addition, campfire permits are not being issued for authorized permit sites.
Citizens are also cautioned about calling local authorities to report smelling wood smoke. Most areas of the state have been receiving smoke from several large wildfires in Northern Quebec.
The Maine Dept. of Environmental Protection is warning citizens with respiratory problems about the smoke ( http://www.maine.gov/dep/air/ozone/).
Last week’s record-breaking heat and lightning storms created over 60 wildfires in Quebec, several which are still considered out of control. The Maine Forest Service has mobilized six forest rangers and 15 wildland firefighters to assist with the fires in Northern Quebec, but still has adequate staffing of forest rangers in Maine.