BISMARCK — Lower than average precipitation and above average temperatures are combining to look like an earlier and longer spring fire season for North Dakota, according to North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (DES).

“We’ve seen severe to extreme drought through the winter across western North Dakota, and moderate drought along the southern and southeastern portions of the state,” says Meteorologist Megan Jones with the National Weather Service in Bismarck in a release from DES.. “The lack of significant snowpack during the winter allowed vegetation like grasses to remain standing, allowing them to burn easier. Dry fuels, low relative humidity, strong winds, and warm temperatures are key ingredients for fire weather conditions.”

Because of the threat, officials from DES kicked off the Agency Fire Coordination meetings earlier than normal in the season to ensure readiness across the state. Other agencies included N.D. Forest Service, N.D. State Fire Marshal, N.D. National Guard, National Weather Service, Civil Air Patrol, N.D. Game and Fish, and N.D. Parks and Recreation.

DES urges people to check for current fire danger, burn restrictions and expected fire weather conditions. Burned brush piles can reignite with high winds, so careful monitoring of piles and sloughs is recommended, even if the fire seems out. And always stay off dry grass when driving a vehicle, as hot exhaust pipes can be a heat source for starting a wildfire.