CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The National Weather Service has placed the area under an elevated fire risk due to forecast warm temperatures, low relative humidity, and brisk winds.

The NWS statement said specifically “the combination of dry fine fuels, relative humidities around 25 to 30 percent, and wind gusts around 25-to-30mph will lead to an increased risk for the rapid spread of wildfires Monday”.

The Weather Service urges “residents and visitors are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers.”

“Additionally, exercise caution if operating any equipment that could create sparks, and keep vehicles off of dry grass.”

“Most dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread fire quickly,” the advisory said.