Red Flag Warning -- A term used by fire-weather forecasters to call attention to limited weather conditions of particular importance that may result in extreme burning conditions. It is issued when it is an on-going event or the fire weather forecaster has a high degree of confidence that Red Flag criteria will occur within 24 hours of issuance. Red Flag criteria occurs whenever a geographical area has been in a dry spell for a week or two, or for a shorter period, if before spring green-up or after fall color, and the National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS) is high to extreme and the following forecast weather parameters are forecasted to be met:1) a sustained wind average 15 mph or greater 2) relative humidity less than or equal to 25 percent and 3) a temperature of greater than 75 degrees F. In some states, dry lightning and unstable air are criteria. A Fire Weather Watch may be issued prior to the Red Flag Warning 'Red flag' Fire Warning in effect today THE NEWS JOURNAL • SEPTEMBER 8, 2010 A combination of warm temperatures, low relative humidity and gusty winds have prompted the National Weather Service to issue a "red flag" fire warning for the area today. The warning is in effect from noon until 7 p.m. A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are occurring.