Day 3-8 Fire Weather Outlook  
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
0337 PM CST Mon Dec 16 2024

Valid 181200Z - 241200Z

The upper-level pattern will be characterized by amplified ridging
in the West with broad troughing in the East. Shortwave troughs are
expected to progress through parts of the central and eastern U.S.
through the rest of this week. Model guidance suggests the western
ridge will break down this weekend into early next week. With the
more progressive pattern east of the Divide, surface high pressure
and colder air is expected to filter into the these areas. Fire
weather concerns for most areas will be minimal. Some areas of
stronger downslope winds are possible in the central High Plains
vicinity as the shortwave troughs move through. Given the colder
temperatures, it is not clear how much fire weather concern will
develop, but fuels in that region remain dry enough to support
increased risk at least on a localized basis.

Moderately strong high pressure in the Great Basin will drive
offshore winds across parts of southern California. Upper-level wind
support will be notably lacking for this event. How low RH will be,
especially on Wednesday morning, is also uncertain. With winds
through the typical Santa Ana corridors peaking Wednesday morning,
the current thinking is that there will be a few hours of critical
fire weather as RH begins decrease with daytime heating. Winds are
expected to diminish during the afternoon/evening.

..Wendt.. 12/16/2024

...Please see www.spc.noaa.gov/fire for graphic product...