California weather: Fire warning in place as blazes 'will likely spread rapidly'

The National Weather Office in Hanford, California issued an updated fire weather watch at 11.49pm on Tuesday — which was valid for Thursday between 11am. and 11pm. The watch is for West Side Hills, San Joaquin Valley, Central Sierra Foothills and Southern Sierra Foothills.

The watch is in effect until 11pm on Thursday night as scorching temperatures are expected over the next few days. Winds are forecasted to be west to northwest winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts reaching 25 to 35 mph. Ridge-top wind gusts reaching 35 mph and humidity 5 to 15 percent are expected.

"Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended," explained the NWS.

Heat advisory brings temperatures over 100

According to the NWS, a fire weather watch means that critical fire weather conditions are possible. Temperatures up to 100 are expected with some inland neighborhoods reaching into the low 100s.

When the scorching weather arrives 

The Heat Advisory runs from 11am Wednesday to 9pm local time Thursday. The forecasters are expecting the hot weather to peak on Wednesday afternoon. Residents in the inland desert areas and valleys could expect a two day burst of heat.

Monitor media resources for later forecasts and possible red flag warnings.

How long is it expected to last?

Thankfully, Californians should get some relief towards the end of the week when the temperatures will start to drop. Residents will need to be aware of the possibility of heat exhaustion and wild fires.

The signs of heat exhaustion include: tiredness, dizziness, headache, feeling sick or being sick, excessive sweating and skin becoming pale and clammy or getting a heat rash, but a change in skin colour can be harder to see on brown and black skin.

Also look out for cramps in the arms, legs and stomach, fast breathing or heartbeat, a high temperature, being very thirsty and weakness.

The National Weather Service warned: "There is a high risk for heat illness for sensitive populations, including the very young, the very old, those without air conditioning, and those active outdoors. Do not leave people or pets in closed vehicles."

Further advice reads: "Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors."

According to analysis from climate research group, Climate Central, the number of "fire weather" days rose by 37 in the Southwest between 1973 and 2024. Wildfires have also been confirmed as growing worse with each passing year, according to a separate UC Irvine study.