By John Schwing

WESTPORT — As temperatures suddenly spring toward summer-like levels amid dry conditions this week, officials have issued a “Red Flag Warning” about the “very high” dangers of brush and forest fires.

The dry conditions, coupled with temperatures that could reach into the 80s later this week, prompted the National Weather Service to issue a Red Flag Warning for the region through 7 p.m. Tuesday, and warn that an “extended period” through early next week poses additional fire threats.

The Westport Fire Department, in a post on its Facebook page, underscores the current fire dangers, noting, “there should be no open burning for the next several days to help prevent brush fires.”

The danger of forest fires across Connecticut is “very high,” according to a warning issued by the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

The Fire Department advises “residents should use caution with anything that could cause a fire. Fires can grow rapidly under these conditions.”

There is no precipitation in the immediate forecast issued by the weather service, as mostly sunny skies and temperatures rising into the low-80s are predicted through Friday.

There is a “slight” chance of showers Saturday and Sunday, the NWS says.