After a weekend of extreme temperatures across California, The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning, with a strong risk of fire weather conditions.
The warning was put in place early morning on Monday for the Northern and Central Sacramento Valley and the adjacent northern Coastal Range.
Much of the state experienced dangerously hot temperatures over the weekend, reaching triple figures in many parts. Now, forecasters are warning of possible forest fires, as winds in the Sacramento Valley region pick up.
What is a Red Flag Warning?
According to NWS, Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either happening or will happen later. This is triggered by a combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures. These conditions can start a fire that can quickly grow in size and intensity.
The warning comes due to gusty winds and low humidity, which will be in effect from 2 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday. These strong, dry winds are expected across the northern and central Sacramento Valley, along the west of I-5, and into the northern Coastal Range.
The winds will range from 15 to 25 mph with possible gusts of 30 to 40 mph, according to NWS.
It is predicted that the humidity level is forecast to be between nine and 20 per cent, with the highest threat being in the Northern Sacramento Valley.
What should you do in the event of a red flag warning?
A red flag warning requires residents to be vigilant and on guard in case a fire were to start. The NWS provides these crucial guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety.
It asks locals to please avoid doing the following:
- Outdoor burning
- Do not use a lawn mower or drive on dry grass or brush
- Do not have vehicle parts or chains dragging on the ground
- Properly dispose of cigarettes and matches
- Obey local burn bans and evacuate if told to
If you do smoke, make sure that cigarette butts are put out and disposed of responsibly, and especially avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from moving vehicles. Just one cigarette butt can ignite dry vegetation, potentially spawning a wildfire that becomes a threat to life.
Related articles
- California heatwave could break records as locals to bake
- Air quality alert issued for millions of Americans told stay indoors
- Red flag warning leaves region on edge as NWS issues four tips to stay safe
- California Red Flag Warning as NWS shares essential safety tips
- California hospitals prepare for influx amid heatwave warnings