Santa Susana Mountains, Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor and Southeastern Ventura County Valleys are the focus of a red flag warning released at 9:47 a.m. on Tuesday by the National Weather Service. The warning is in effect until Wednesday Oct. 29, at 6 p.m.
Winds are expected to be northeast 15 to 30 mph with gusts 35 to 45 mph. Strongest winds expected this afternoon through Wednesday morning and relative humidity minimum humidity falling to 8 to 15 percent on Tuesday, then 5 to 10 percent on Wednesday. Very poor recoveries expected Tuesday night with many wind prone areas remaining in the 12 to 25 percent range.
“A period of gusty Santa Ana winds combined with very warm and very dry conditions will likely bring critical fire weather conditions to portions of Southwest California,” according to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. “If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for extreme fire behavior, rapid fire growth, and long range spotting, which could threaten life and property.”
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. Bolster burn barrel safety:
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 handling of smoking materials:
Never discard lit cigarette butts outside, and avoid tossing cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle. These seemingly small actions can lead to dry grass ignition, potentially sparking a wildfire.
3. Properly extinguish outdoor fires:
To safeguard against accidental fires, diligently extinguish all outdoor fires. Drown them with an ample amount of water and stir to confirm that everything is cold to the touch. Submerge charcoal in water until it’s thoroughly cooled. Never dispose of live charcoal on the ground.
4. Never desert a blaze:
Avoid abandoning any fire without supervision. Even minor sparks or drifting embers can incite nearby foliage or grass, setting off a rapidly spreading fire.
Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay informed, and act responsibly to protect lives and property.