Warm, windy start to spring

Red flag warning (National Weather Service graphic)

The first day of spring, Thursday, March 20, starts with a sunny day near 70 degrees.

Southwest winds of 8 to 13 mph will increase in the afternoon to 18 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.

Winds are accompanied by low humidity and dry conditions.

The conditions are enough for a red flag warning from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.

The warning means there is an increased risk of fire. Residents are asked to avoid any outdoor burning.

Friday’s weather forecast isn’t quite as warm, with a high of 65.

Saturday will cool off to 47 degrees, with Sunday’s high 42.

Be careful about planting any plants outdoors yet. On Saturday night, temperatures drop below freezing, to 26 degrees.

Monday’s forecast has a 30 percent chance of rain or snow, with a high of 44.

Low humidity (National Weather Service graphic)
Strong winds (National Weather Service graphic)