MANATEE -- The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for west central and southwest Florida.

Dry fuels and low relative humidities may elevate fire danger in the area through Saturday.

Relative humidity will be below 35 percent much of the day, dropping to between 18 and 22 percent Friday afternoon.

Red flag wildfire warnings are in effect until 8 p.m. Friday in Pinellas, Sarasota and Lee counties, according to the weather service in Ruskin.

"Any fires that develop will likely spreak rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended," the warning states.