Extreme fire danger in the Philadelphia region Friday as drought worsens and rain could return

The latest drought monitor for the country was released today, and much of Atlantic and Burlington counties are now in the extreme drought level, while the vast majority of the region remains in severe drought. This appears to be the worst drought in our area in more than two decades. The last time New Jersey had 20% or more of the state under extreme drought was in 2002. Needless to say, fire danger in the Delaware Valley is extreme.

Due to this fire hazard, a NEXT Weather Warning is in effect Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The region is also under a red flag warning due to fire danger.

The dry conditions have fueled things forest fires in our areaand conditions on Friday look favorable for rapid fire spread. A secondary cold front will bring gusty winds in the afternoon, and much drier air at the surface will lead to lower relative humidity levels. We will alert you if fire warnings are issued for the area. Temperatures will still be above average in the low 70s, but a strengthening shot of cold air will bring temperatures back to the average high of 59 on Saturday, which will feel very cold in light of the heat we’ve had .

Sunday brings our first decent chance for measurable rain in more than 40 days. As a new system approaches from the west, clouds will increase and showers are possible late Sunday through early Monday. While it won’t look like a soaking rain, widespread showers could bring as much as 0.25 to 0.5 inches to the area, and every little bit helps.

We also look at the tropics Raphael moves through the Gulf of Mexico. The hurricane will continue to weaken and may dissipate into the Gulf without making landfall again. We will keep you informed.

Here’s your seven-day forecast:

Friday: Sunny, cooler. Highest of 71.

Saturday: Fresh, sunny. Highest of 59, lowest of 44.

Sunday: Showers probably. Highest of 60, lowest of 37.

Monday: Sun returns. Highest of 70, lowest of 56.

Tuesday: Mostly sunny. Highest of 61, lowest of 49.

Wednesday: Mostly sunny. Highest of 57, lowest of 39.

Thursday: Chance of shower. Highest of 59, lowest of 45.

NEXT Weather radars

Hourly forecast