Special Weather Statement issued March 21 at 9:29AM EDT by NWS Albany NY

Despite last night’s rainfall, the combination of relative
humidity dropping to 25 to 35 percent, frequent wind gusts of 25
to 30 miles per hour, and drying fine fuels will contribute to an
elevated risk of fire spread this afternoon. The risk will be
highest over southern Herkimer, Montgomery, and Schoharie Counties
in the Leatherstocking Fire Danger Rating Area, and in Warren,
Saratoga, and Washington Counties in the Upper Hudson
Valley/Champlain Fire Danger Rating Area.

Any fires that develop in dry grass or brush will likely spread
rapidly. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged, and residents
are urged to exercise caution if handling any potential ignition
sources, such as machinery, cigarettes, or matches. The annual
statewide burn ban is in effect until May 14. No burn permits are
issued.

For more information about wildfire danger and wildfire prevention,
please visit the New York Department of Environmental
Conservation website at http://dec.ny.gov/environmental-
protection/wildfires.