(Updated) Brush Fire Warning Monday for Much of Maryland

This story was updated at 12:50 p.m. to reflect safety tips and a burn ban in Howard County Monday.

A brush fire warning is in effect for much of Maryland due to a combination of dry conditions, gusty winds and warm temperatures across the state on Monday.

The National Weather Service warning is in effect from 9:06 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Winds on Monday are expected to blow west 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph; humidity is at 20 to 30 percent, according to the warning. Temperatures are expected to reach highs near 68 degrees Monday in the Baltimore/D.C. region.

The combination “will create explosive fire growth potential,” according to the National Weather Service.

A warning means critical fire weather conditions are “occurring now,” the Weather Service said.

The Howard County Fire Marshal has placed a ban on all burning in the county until 8 p.m., officials said Monday. 

If someone is found in violation of the ban, he or she will face a $250 fine, Howard County fire officials said.

Open burning has also been prohibited in Baltimore County while critical fire conditions continue, officials said.

Elsewhere, weather conditions are leading to brush fires.

New Jersey’s dry and windy conditions have led to more than two dozen brush fires since Friday, and weather officials say the state remains at risk into this week,

On Sunday in Maryland, 100 Joppa residents were evacuated due to a brush fire in the area, reported the Baltimore Sun.

The brush fire warning in effect Monday also includes most of Virginia, weather officials said.

The Howard County fire department offers the following tips when conditions are favorable to brush fires:

*       Be mindful of discarding items that can easily catch fire.

*       Do not operate all-terrain vehicles on dry vegetation areas.

*       Check lawnmowers and farm equipment for properly working spark arresters.

*       Be cautious when driving in severe wind since high winds can make controlling your vehicle difficult and reduce visibility.

*       Watch out for debris on the roadways and other areas.

*       Secure loose items such as lawn furniture that might be blown about by high winds..