The drier the area the earlier the burn should be to avoid damaging the earliest blooming wildflowers. Though fall burns are possible and can be beneficial, they are often avoided, due to the cooler temperatures, drier ground, and destruction to winter wildlife habitat they may cause. Weather Conditions Weather has an overriding effect on a prescribed burn. A burn plan will outline the weather conditions, which must be met before the burn is conducted. It is very important to have the latest and most updated weather conditions available before starting the burn.
Relative humidity is an important factor to consider when planning a controlled burn.
Temperature is also important when laying out a burn plan because of its relation to relative humidity. Below 32 degrees Fahrenheit grass mats will rarely burn, and above 80 degrees Fahrenheit burning is hazardous. Fahrenheit is ideal. Wind direction and speed should both be taken into account as well . The wind speed should be between three and seven mph, and the wind direction should remain steady.