Wildfire red flag' warnings are in effect for large chunks of the U.S. Here's what to know

"Red flag warnings are issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are ripe for increased wildfire risk, including low humidity, strong winds, and low moisture on the ground."

"In North Dakota, having red flag warnings in effect in late April and early May is not abnormal, as this time of year often sees unseasonably warm and dry weather."

"The threat of wildfires across the U.S. is increasing, driven by climate change, with warmer nighttime temperatures contributing to more frequent and intense fires."

Red flag warnings are currently active across a significant portion of the central U.S., from northern Texas to North Dakota and Minnesota. These warnings indicate conditions conducive to wildfires, including low humidity below 25%, winds exceeding 15 miles per hour, and dry vegetation. Meteorologists note that unseasonably warm and dry weather has affected North Dakota, where such warnings are typical in late April and early May. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of wildfires across the U.S.

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