Brush fire
File Photo | LMCS File

The National Weather Service has issued a warning about an elevated brush fire threat Sunday in the northern Illinois area, including Lake and McHenry counties.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued the hazardous weather outlook warning Sunday morning and then issued a follow-up special weather statement.

The outlook covers portions of North Central and Northeast Illinois.

Gust winds around 35 mph, possibly higher at times, in combination with very dry ground conditions have created an elevated risk for brush fire spread, the NWS said.

The NWS said that residents should postpone any planned burns for Sunday.

The NWS also said residents should exercise “great care” when disposing of smoking materials.

Showers and isolated thunderstorms are expected to develop Sunday evening.

Thunderstorm chances are highest mainly along and west of Interstate 55.

Periods of soaking rain are likely in parts of the area Tuesday and Tuesday evening, the NWS said.

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Some of the rainfall could be locally heavy, mainly along and east of Interstate 55.