If you’re in Jackson County, IL, or Perry County, MO, today is not the day to take any risks with fire. A Red Flag Warning is in effect until 7 PM, and with the strong winds, dry air, and zero recent rain, conditions are just right for wildfires to spark and spread dangerously fast.
It doesn’t take much—a flicked cigarette, a car parked on dry grass, or a stray ember from a grill—to turn into a fast-moving wildfire that firefighters can’t keep up with. Officials are asking everyone to be extra cautious today.
Why Is the Fire Risk So High?
Strong Winds (20-30 MPH, Gusts Over 40 MPH) – If a fire starts, the wind will push it across fields, roads, and even neighborhoods in minutes.
Dry as a Bone (Humidity 15-25%) – With barely any moisture in the air, grass, trees, and brush will ignite instantly if exposed to a spark.
No Rain + Dry Ground = Trouble – The land is crispy dry, and with nothing to slow flames down, a small fire could explode into something dangerous fast.
Who’s in the Danger Zone?
This Red Flag Warning covers:
Jackson County, IL – Murphysboro, Carbondale, Ava
Perry County, MO – Perryville, Altenburg, Lithium
If you’re in these areas, take this seriously—a wildfire can spread before you even have time to react.
What You Can Do to Prevent a Fire Today
NO Outdoor Burning! – No bonfires, no fire pits, no trash burning. Even the smallest ember could be carried by the wind and start a fire miles away.
Be Smart About Your Car – Hot engines and exhaust pipes can ignite dry grass. Stick to paved parking lots and roads. If you’re towing a trailer, make sure safety chains aren’t dragging—sparks from metal scraping the road can start fires.
Toss Cigarettes Responsibly – DO NOT flick your cigarette butt on the ground or out the car window. That tiny ember could cost thousands of acres of land.
Watch Your Outdoor Equipment – If you’re using lawnmowers, farm equipment, welding tools, or anything that sparks, keep it far from dry grass and brush.
How Long Will This Last?
The Red Flag Warning is in effect until 7 PM, but that doesn’t mean the fire danger instantly disappears. If dry, windy weather sticks around, the risk could last into the weekend.
If you see smoke or fire, don’t wait—call 911 immediately. Wildfires move fast, and a quick response could save lives and property.
Today is not the day for burning, grilling, or taking any risks with fire. It only takes one mistake to spark a wildfire that could put homes, businesses, and lives in danger.
