Western Antelope Valley Foothills and Antelope Valley are under a red flag warning which was issued by the National Weather Service on Friday at 1:14 p.m. The warning is valid for Saturday, May 16 between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Winds are expected to be west to northwest 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 50 mph, except damaging gusts up to 60 mph in the western portions of the Antelope Valley and relative humidity 10 to 20%.
“The best overlap of strong winds and critically low humidities in the Antelope Valley and adjacent foothills is expected on Saturday, leading to an increased risk of large and fast moving grass fires,” says the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. “Any grass fires that develop will likely spread rapidly with extreme fire behavior, with the potential for long range spotting and large fire growth.”
Emergency alerts in Southern California
For “considerable or catastrophic” hazards, emergency alerts will be sent to all enabled mobile phones in the area. To monitor lesser risk, residents are advised to sign up for county alert systems and to monitor agencies’ social media. How to sign up for alerts in your area:
What does a red flag warning mean?
A red flag warning indicates that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently happening or will happen soon, as per the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire to spread rapidly.
What actions are necessary during a red flag warning?
A red flag warning demands vigilance and immediate readiness to respond to potential fires. The NWS provides these vital guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety:
1. Secure burn barrels:
In areas where controlled burning is sanctioned, make certain that burn barrels sport a weighty metal cover, equipped with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.
2. Mindful disposal of smoking materials:
Steer clear of haphazardly discarding lit cigarette butts and avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from moving vehicles. These innocuous-seeming actions can kindle dry vegetation, potentially spawning a wildfire.
3. Prudent fire extinguishing practices:
To thwart accidental fires, diligently extinguish all outdoor fires. Suffocate them with an ample deluge of water and stir to ensure complete cooling. Submerge charcoal in water until it’s entirely devoid of heat. Never leave live charcoal unattended.
4. Never leave fires unattended:
Refrain from leaving any fire unattended. Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand.
Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is paramount in averting wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay impeccably informed, and assume responsibility to shield lives and property.
For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page