Treasure Coast - Thursday March 2, 2023: The National Weather Service in Melbourne has issued a Fire Weather Watch for Okeechobee, Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin counties, as well as a number of other east-central Florida counties. It becomes effective at noon on Friday March 3 and runs through 7 p.m. the same day.
A Fire Weather Watch is issued when critical fire weather conditions are possible. Critical fire weather conditions exist when there is a combination of very dry vegetation, gusty winds, and low humidity.
The Fire Weather Watch was prompted by a forecast that includes temperatures in the mid 80's, humidity as low as 30%, and southwest winds between 15 and 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.
Under such conditions the Weather Service advises that any new or existing fires will be capable of spreading rapidly.
Residents are advised to stay aware of the latest forecasts and any possible Red Flag Warnings. A Red Flag Warning is issued when critical fire weather conditions are happening or about to happen.