Dry conditions and wind increase wildfire risk in Lancaster County

Dry conditions in Lancaster County have increased the risk of wildfires Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in State College.

The NWS issued a hazardous weather warning early Thursday morning, saying dry fuels such as wildland vegetation and grass, low relative humidity and a moderately gusty breeze create an elevated risk of wildfires in the late morning and early evening.

The warning covers Lancaster and 10 other counties and runs from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. today. The NWS said people should be more vigilant when handling any potential ignition sources such as machinery, cigarettes, or matches.

Thursday's high in Lancaster is expected to reach 79 degrees, with winds around 5 to 9 mph, according to NWS' forecast, with rain showers likely this weekend.