Critical fire conditions are expected to develop across much of Minnesota Thursday afternoon as a low-pressure system approaches.

Gusty southerly winds, low humidity and drought-affected land will contribute to red flag warnings and increased fire concerns across the state Thursday through Friday.

Airy, mild and dry

Southerly winds will strengthen through Friday ahead of an approaching surface low-pressure system, with gusts of up to 55 to 60 km per hour on Thursday afternoon.

Relative humidity is expected to drop to 20 to 25 percent Thursday afternoon.

Thanks to warm southerly winds, temperatures are expected to rise 10 to 20 degrees above normal early next week. Highs this weekend will reach the 60s and 70s, with central and southern Minnesota approaching 80 degrees on Sunday.

The driest conditions and strongest winds are expected Thursday through Friday, although elevated fire conditions could persist into early next week.

The drought continues

No significant rainfall is expected until early next week. However, a minor disturbance running from Friday into Saturday will bring light rainfall to northwestern and northern Minnesota, with totals generally ranging from tenths of an inch to less than a quarter of an inch.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor report shows that 72 percent of Minnesota is experiencing moderate drought, while severe drought has expanded in parts of north-central and southwestern Minnesota.

Check out our latest Updraft blog for more information on drought conditions.