Prepare for fire danger in 16 N.J. counties until Friday evening

A weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Friday at 3:02 a.m. for fire danger until 7 p.m. for Sussex, Warren, Morris, Hunterdon, Somerset, Middlesex, Monmouth, Mercer, Salem, Gloucester, Camden, Burlington, Ocean, Cumberland, Atlantic and Cape May counties.

"There is an increased risk of fire spread through this afternoon. Relative humidity values are expected to fall to around 20% to 25% across much of the area. This will be combined with north to northeast winds near 10 to 15 mph, with sporadic gusts of 18 to 20 mph possible at times, temperatures in the mid 60s to near 70 degrees, and abundant sunshine. These conditions will support the spread of any fires that ignite, which could quickly become difficult to control. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Be sure to properly extinguish or dispose of any potential ignition sources, including smoking materials such as cigarette butts. Refer to your state's forest fire management agency for more information on burn restrictions in your local area. Relative humidity values will remain low into the weekend, however winds will be much lighter. Burn restrictions may still be in place given the very dry conditions and lack of any recent rainfall," says the weather service.