The greater region, including Pettis, Benton, Henry and Morgan Counties, are 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.
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor Pettis County is abnormally dry. The majority of Benton County, along with the southwestern portion of Morgan County, are considered to be under a moderate drought.
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. Areas to the east of U.S. Highway 65 have a greater risk of severe weather.
Pettis County residents can keep up with immediate weather alerts such as watches and warnings through Nixle Sign up online at http://nixle.us/pettis-county-sheriffs-office/.
The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch until 11 p.m.
This is a developing story. Additional details will be added as necessary.
