Red flag warning in effect until 8 p.m.

MAT-SU — A red flag warning has halted burning in the Mat-Su Valley.

The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for strong wind in the Mat-Su Valley. The warning will be in effect from 1 to 8 p.m. today with southeast winds expected to reach 25 to 35 mph.

Although the winds might not seem out of control, the red flag warning is issued to address fire safety. With the current conditions in the Valley, high winds will make the area prime for high-risk fire conditions. As a result, burn permits for the Mat-Su Borough are suspended.

For more information or updates, visit the Alaska Interagency Coordination Center Web site at http://fire.ak.blm.gov or call the Palmer branch of the state Division of Forestry at 761-6338.