Red flag warning in effect Tuesday 8 a.m. as Lynn Woods brush fire burns

Dry and windy conditions across much of Massachusetts are elevating the risk for potential wildfires, prompting the National Weather Service to put into effect a red flag warning starting at 8 a.m. Tuesday.

A lack of rain, warm temperatures, full sun and gusts contributed to the brush fire risk Tuesday, according to a National Weather Service announcement.

"Because of the dry conditions today, BE VERY CAREFUL handling any ignition sources outdoors, such as matches and cigarettes," read the announcement.

The trails north of Walden Pond have been closed to the public as a large brush fire continues to burn in Lynn Woods. Fire officials said the blaze, which started on Friday, is contained and not threatening any properties.

Tuesday's red flag warning, which affects most of Massachusetts and southern New England, is scheduled to change to a "fire weather watch" on Wednesday in anticipation of brush fire risk later this week.

Potential fires could be fueled by vegetation that died-off during last year's drought, fire officials said.

The National Weather Service notices do not effect Cape Cod, the Islands, and parts of coastal Rhode Island and Connecticut.