The entirety of the region, including Johnson County, is under a Red Flag Warning between 11 a.m. and 10 p.m. Friday, March 14.
According to the National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill, south to southwest winds of 25 mph to 35 mph, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour, are expected. With the wind, a High Wind Watch has also been issued across the area.
The high winds combine with low relative humidity and warm temperatures to create a critical risk of fire. Burning is not recommended due to the possibility of fire moving quickly.
The Warrensburg Fire Department has placed Warrensburg under a burn ban for the immediate future. This includes all open burning, fire pits, chimeneas, and similar open flames. Residents are asked to be cautious with other flames such as cigarettes, grills, smokers and equipment.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, the far eastern portions of Johnson County are abnormally dry. No drought is reported for the majority of the county.
Friday’s high is expected to be near 81 degrees Fahrenheit
Even with the fire risk, severe thunderstorms are possible in the afternoon. The chance of precipitation is 60%, with less than a tenth of an inch expected between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
According to a NWS Hazardous Weather Outlook, damaging wind, hail and an isolated tornado are possible.
The severe weather risk increases the further east you go in Missouri.
Johnson County residents can keep up with immediate weather alerts such as watches and warnings through Regroup. Sign up online at https://jocomoema.app.regroup.com.
This is a developing story. Additional details will be added as necessary.
