KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) A recent wave of dry, windy weather has pushed fire danger to critical levels in southwestern New Hampshire, prompting the City of Keene to halt all open burning and consumer fireworks use indefinitely.

In response to heightened wildfire risk conditions, Keene fire officials announced the immediate suspension of all burn permits and fire-related activities within city limits. The decision comes as the region grapples with persistent dry weather and strong wind gusts that continue to challenge firefighters and raise alarms among emergency planners.

The move follows a weekend in which fire crews responded to at least two separate brush fires—one in Winchester and another in Stoddard—underscoring just how volatile the conditions have become. While the National Weather Service ended its Red Flag Warning for southern parts of the state late Sunday, the underlying hazards remain.

According to state officials, nearly three-quarters of New Hampshire is experiencing abnormally dry conditions, setting the stage for a potentially severe wildfire season. Recent precipitation did little to alleviate the situation, with most areas receiving less than a quarter inch of rainfall in the past 24 hours. Meanwhile, low humidity—ranging from 20 to 28 percent in southern New Hampshire—and gusty northwest winds between 15 and 25 miles per hour continue to elevate fire risk.

The state’s Department of Natural and Cultural Resources has reported a 24 percent increase in wildfires over the past year, with burned acreage nearly doubling compared to 2023. Thirty-seven structures were at risk in those incidents, and four were lost.

As New Hampshire enters a period of seasonal transition, the danger of wildfires is amplified by dry springtime vegetation and shifting wind patterns. This week’s convergence of Severe Weather Awareness Week and the newly established Wildfire Awareness Week, proclaimed by Governor Kelly Ayotte, has drawn additional attention to the potential for rapidly spreading fires.

Local departments across Cheshire County—including those in Hinsdale, Richmond, Roxbury, Stoddard, and Winchester—have enacted similar restrictions, reflecting a coordinated effort to prevent new ignitions while conditions remain hazardous.

Forecasts suggest some relief could arrive by late Thursday, when southerly winds are expected to return and bring modest moisture back to the region. Light showers are possible Thursday afternoon into the night, though fire officials remain cautious given the minimal rainfall and dry ground cover.

Until conditions improve significantly, Keene residents are advised to avoid any outdoor burning and to monitor the city’s website for updates on the status of fire restrictions.