With the D.C.-region’s recent spout of frigid weather, you may have wanted to curl up next to a fire to stay warm. But with dry conditions and gusty winds ahead, officials want you to be careful disposing that fireplace ash.

The National Weather Service has issued a fire danger message, alerting that dry conditions in Northern and Central Virginia are causing an increased risk for the spread of wildfires this weekend.

Relative humidity will drop to around 25% to 35% late in the afternoon on Sunday. Wind gusts could reach up to 20 to 30 mph, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Anna Stuck.

“It’s a combination of those dry conditions from low relative humidities, lack of rain, drought across the area, and then also those increased winds, gives us a higher threat for the spread of wildfires,” Stuck said.

On Saturday, D.C. Fire and EMS crews battled a large brush fire in Rock Creek Park. It took around 75 personnel to put out the flames, according to a post on X.

Stuck said there are precautions everyone can take to avoid sparking and spreading wildfires.

“Just be mindful around any open flames or anything that could spark, if you’re in the dry area around grass or vegetation especially,” Stuck said.

While under an increased risk for wildfire, NWS has a few recommendations:

• Don’t throw cigarettes or matches out of a moving vehicle. They may ignite dry grass on the side of the road and produce a wildfire.
• Extinguish all outdoor fires properly. Drown fires with plenty of water and stir to make sure everything is cold to the touch. Dunk charcoal in water until cold. Do not throw live charcoal on the ground and leave it.
• Remember, never leave a fire unattended. Sparks or embers can blow into leaves or grass, ignite a fire, and quickly spread.

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