Special Weather Statement issued May 15 at 3:39AM CDT by NWS Green Bay WI

Pine fuels have reached their peak volatility and fine fuels have still not greened up over northern Wisconsin, so periods of dry and windy weather will bring near-critical to critical fire weather conditions through Saturday. Critical fire weather conditions are expected across far north central Wisconsin this afternoon and early evening, and a Red Flag Warning has been posted for Vilas County. Despite light rainfall overnight, fine fuels should have an opportunity to dry out by afternoon. Weather conditions should reach critical levels, with highs around 80, low relative humidity and southwest winds gusting to 25 to 30 mph. Very dry air will reside over northern Wisconsin on Saturday. Very low relative humidity, west winds gusting to 25 mph and warm temperatures will lead to near-critical to critical fire weather conditions across the Northwoods Saturday afternoon. Residents are urged to be careful with any activities that could potentially lead to a wildland fire. Campfires, outdoor grills, smoking materials, chain saws, and all-terrain vehicles all have the potential to throw a spark and ignite a dangerous and destructive fire.