Virginia Special Weather Statement | Effective 04/19/2026 14:33

Headline: 
Special Weather Statement issued April 19 at 5:33PM EDT by NWS Baltimore MD/Washington DC
Event: 
Special Weather Statement
Urgency: 
Expected
Effective: 
April 19, 2026 - 2:33pm
Expires: 
April 20, 2026 - 12:00am
Description: 
The combination of 10 hour fuel moistures around 10 to 12 percent relative humidities around 20 to 25 percent, and frequent wind gusts around 20 to 25 mph will lead to an increased risk for the rapid spread of wildfires on Monday. Even with some light rainfall today, there was adequate sun and gusty winds this afternoon to rapidly dry fuels once again ahead of Monday. Further expansion north may be needed in the future, but uncertainty with cloudcover, along with about twice as much rainfall, may make things a bit less favorable north of this statement. An updated will be issued early Monday morning. Residents and visitors are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers. Additionally, exercise caution if operating any equipment that could create sparks and keep vehicles off of dry grass. Most dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread fire quickly. Lastly, remember to obey local burn bans. For more information about wildfire danger, burn restrictions, and wildfire prevention and education, please visit your state forestry or environmental protection website. For Virginia, visit dof.virginia.gov
Area Description: 
Augusta; Rockingham; Page; Nelson; Albemarle; Greene; Madison; Rappahannock; Orange; Culpeper; Stafford; Spotsylvania; King George; Southern Fauquier; Western Highland; Eastern Highland; Northern Virginia Blue Ridge; Central Virginia Blue Ridge
Forcast Office: 
NWS Baltimore MD/Washington DC