Hazardous Local Weather Statement Issued for Wednesday

A special weather statement has been issued for parts of the Hudson Valley due to the dry conditions. Rain later in the week should help relieve the problem.

The National Weather Service has issued a warning through tomorrow (Wednesday Night at 9 pm). Accord to their statement dry, windy conditions will elevate the risk of brush fires across the Hudson Valley. Parts of Dutchess, Ulster, Green and Columbia counties are covered under this weather statement.

NOAA states that gusts are expected to reach 40 to 50 mph during the afternoon and evening. The winds combined with the low humidity is what brings up the risk of brush fires. They forecast the greatest risk to be in the mid-Hudson Valley south of Albany where temperatures will be around 60 degrees and relative humidity is expected to drop to as low as 20 percent.

A burn ban is in effect and has been issued for the entire Hudson Valley until May 14th. If you see a condition that could lead to a fire please notify your local fire department immediately.