Front to bring dry, gusty conditions today through Friday

Forecasters are predicting increased fire weather concerns today through Friday before cooler weather arrives for the Labor Day weekend.

Windy conditions are expected to arrive by mid-morning and continue into tonight, according to the National Weather Service in Reno.

Gusts of 25-35 mph with lower humidity bringing brief spells of critical fire weather.

After today, a 4-10 hour period of critical fire weather is possible on Thursday and another 3-6-hour period on Friday for portions of southern Lyon County.

Forecasters haven’t issued any fire weather watches for Western Nevada, but might should conditions deteriorate.

Fire restrictions on the Bridgeport and Carson Ranger Districts didn’t survive Tropical Storm Hilary.

Implemented on Aug. 7, the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest announced fire restrictions were lifted on Aug. 23 after wet conditions from the storm.

“Fire managers continually evaluate conditions across the forest to help determine when to implement or rescind fire restrictions,” officials said. “Enough rain has fallen across those districts to increase fuel moisture levels and decrease fire danger. The forecast shows these improved conditions continuing.”

Rain is supposed to return to the forecast on Saturday.

Officials say the public should remain vigilant while visiting the forest, regardless of restriction levels. Leaving a campfire unattended is illegal year round. Campfires must be dead out — cold to the touch — before it is left unattended.

Additionally, people recreating on the California part of the forest will need to obtain a free California Campfire Permit if they plan to build a campfire or use a barbecue or stove at: http://www.preventwildfireca.org/Campfires/