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COLLEGE STATION, Texas— Texas Forest Service (TFS) is warning citizens across the state of heightened wildfire danger due to gusty winds, low relative humidity values and critically dry vegetation on Friday.

The area of concern is the I-35 corridor and west.

“The critical wildfire weather and critically dry fuels present a serious concern to this area of the state,” said Tom Spencer, predictive services department head for TFS. “These conditions could easily lead to significant wildfire occurrences. “

Spencer said that a significant wildfire is one that can exceed the control of local resources and pose a serious threat to citizens and property.

In Texas, people start 95 percent of wildfires. Citizens need to be aware of the conditions and should not engage in activities, such as throwing out lit cigarettes, bailing hay, welding and burning debris, that could lead to an accidental wildfire start.

Since the beginning of the winter 2009 wildfire season, which began on January 22, 2009, TFS has responded along with local fire departments to 186 wildfires for 30,009 acres. During the same period, local fire departments have reported an additional 1,255 wildfires for 25,191 acres according to an online database managed by TFS.

For more information on fire advisories and area conditions, go to http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu and click on Fire Danger/Advisories.