Local fire departments are warning Butler County residents that weather conditions combined with dry vegetation have created an elevated risk for fire Thursday and Friday.

During this time, outdoor burning is not recommended, and people are encouraged to properly discard cigarettes and avoid activities with open flames.

Winds are to exceed more than 10 mph both days, said Gary Wulff, chief of the Oneida Valley Volunteer Fire Department, and it is also to be sunny.

He said a wind-whipped fire in quick-burning dormant vegetation, as well as among dead, dry leaves, can cause a burn to easily become uncontrollable.

The National Weather Service said wind gusts could be as high as 24 mph.

Grace's Closet at Grace @ Calvary Lutheran Church will be closed April 11. Donations of clothing are not being accepted at this time.The church building is also closed because of the coronavirus pandemic. Services are offered on line. For more information, call the church office at 724-283-0830.

The Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Company is conducting its annual fund drive.Letters were mailed to residents, businesses and property owners within the service area.Donations can be sent to Saxonburg VFC, 210 Horne Ave., Saxonburg, PA 16056.

Harmony Museum and Historic Harmony plans to continue with its annual quilt raffle.Because of the coronavirus, the museum and shops are closed and all events through May are postponed.Tickets for the quilt made by museum quilters are available for $10 and must be purchased by May 22.For tickets, contact Historic Harmony members or call 724-452-7341 Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m.