In response to weather forecasts for Thursday, the Virginia Department of Forestry urges people to help prevent wildfires by postponing open-air fires until conditions improve, according to a press release.

The combination of strong winds, increased temperatures and low humidity will create extremely dangerous fire weather conditions Thursday.

Fire weather watches have been posted by the National Weather Service for Thursday afternoon.

In addition to postponing burning, the National Weather Service stated, residents are urged to handle with caution any potential ignition source, including cigarettes, matches and machinery.

Temperatures are expected to rise to the mid- to upper-70s during the afternoon hours. A low pressure system bringing gusty winds of 30 to 40 miles per hour with higher gusts, relative humidity values of 20 to 30 percent and low fuel moistures will combine to create an environment conducive to the rapid spread of wildfires. Any fires that develop could quickly burn out of control.

“Firefighter and citizen safety is our most important consideration, and we base all recommendations and actions with that in mind,” says John Miller, Virginia Department of Forestry director of fire and emergency response. “The VDOF has elevated its ability to respond as needed and reached out to other cooperators to make sure all wildfire emergency responders are aware of the increased dangers and will plan accordingly.”

Forestry officials urge everyone to delay all outdoor burning scheduled for Thursday, as wildfire dangers remain critical, the press release stated. This recommendation will be re-evaluated for Friday and Saturday based on conditions forecaste for that period.

“We urge all citizens to postpone any burning until conditions improve,” stressed Fred Turck, VDOF wildfire prevention program manager. “Virginia’s 4 p.m. law is still in effect, making it illegal to have an open-air fire before 4 p.m. within 300 feet of the woods or dry grass leading to the woods.”