Fire Weather Warning alerts Columbiana County of increased wildfire risk

The National Weather Service in Pittsburgh has issued a Fire Weather Warning for Columbiana County and several other eastern Ohio counties, citing an increased risk of wildfire due to dry conditions, low humidity, and gusty winds.

The warning, which replaces a previous Fire Weather Watch, is in effect until 10 p.m. Wednesday.

The affected areas include Tuscarawas, Carroll, Columbiana, Coshocton, Harrison, Jefferson, Muskingum, Guernsey, Belmont, Noble and Monroe counties.

Our StormTracker 21 team is forecasting southerly winds up to 20 mph, with winds gusting up to 35 mph. Those strong winds paired with high temperatures in the mid to upper 70s and low humidity will be easy fuel for any fire to spread quickly. 

A fire weather warning,or red flag warning, is defined by critical fire weather conditions that are occurring or will occur shortly. Residents are urged to take precautions to prevent wildfires.

Officials are also reminding Ohioans that state regulations prohibit most open burning in unincorporated areas in March, April, May, October and November between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Burning during those times may be permissible if certain conditions are met, according to the Ohio Division of Forestry.

Officials warn that individuals can be held liable for damage caused by fires they start. They recommend alternative methods for disposing of yard waste, such as composting.