The thick layers of leaves covering the ground, the dry weather, and gusty winds already make April one of the peak seasons for brush fires.

But today, the danger is even greater in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the state Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service say.NWS has issued a red flag warning for brush fires for Berks, Upper Montgomery, and Bucks counties, the Lehigh Valley and the Poconos, as well as much of northwestern and central New Jersey.A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are expected due to a combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and dry fuels. Any fires that develop may quickly get out of control and become difficult to contain."Potential exists for rapid growth and spread of wildfires," NEWs said. "Outdoor burning is not recommended."Schuylkill and Susquehanna counties, Nesquehoning and Jim Thorpe all have banned open burning.Today danger is heightened because a dry cold frontal passage will promote an elevated risk for rapid development and spread of wildfires across parts of central and eastern Pennsylvania this afternoon and early evening. Frequent wind gusts at or above 20 mph combined with the relative humidity falling below 30 percent. The gusty winds and low relative humidity should sufficiently dry and cure the fine fuels such as leaf litter, twigs, and brush, NWS said.The warning is especially important to heed today. The weather promises to be beautiful, with highs in the upper 70s, and clear skies. It will be a perfect day to get out and rake winter debris from yards and gardens.Sunday will be sunny, with temperatures in the 60s. On Sunday night, the weather pictures changes drastically, with heavy rain and temperatures in the low 40s. Heavy rain is expected Monday, with temperatures hovering around 60 degrees.There is a chance of showers Tuesday and Wednesday, and daytime temperatures are expected to be around 60 degrees.