The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for Freeborn, Faribault, Martin, Waseca, Steele, Rice and Redwood counties in Minnesota. Red flag warnings pertain to fire conditions.

The warning says a strong south wind and dry humidity along with recent dry weather contribute to the conditions. The warning was in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday.

“South winds of 20 to 25 mph with gusts over 30 mph combined with relative humidity around 25 percent and dry fuels are causing these conditions,” it says.

Freeborn County Sheriff Mark Harig said after receiving the weather alert, dispatchers at the law enforcement center told people who inquired about having a fire that it would not be allowed until 6 p.m.

“If it stays windy, I’m sure they’ll continue it until tomorrow,” Harig said.

The Sheriff’s Office has not yet issued a formal burning ban.

Red flag warnings were issued for parts of Wisconsin and Iowa, too. And almost all the Great Plains were facing red flag warnings Tuesday. Parts of Georgia and Florida were, too.