5 Freeway north of LA was placed under a red flag warning by the National Weather Service on Tuesday at 1:28 p.m. The warning is valid from Wednesday noon until Thursday July 16, at 9 a.m.
The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA states that the warning was issued for wind and low relative humidity. Expect winds to be northwest to north winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 35 to 55 mph, strongest in Sundowner wind prone areas of southern Santa Barbara County and relative humidity 10 to 25%.
“Strong northwest to north winds, hot temperatures, and low relative humidity will produce the potential for critical fire-weather conditions late Wednesday through early Thursday,” states the NWS. “If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for extreme fire behavior, rapid fire growth, and long range spotting, which could threaten life and property. The hot air mass will also contribute to the potential for significant vertical plume growth.”
The full list of affected locations includes:
- 5 Freeway corridor near Santa Clarita
- Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast
- Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast
- Santa Ynez Mountains Western Range
- Santa Ynez Mountains Eastern Range
- Santa Barbara County Interior Mountains
- Southern Ventura County Mountains
- Northern Ventura County Mountains
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 is the significance of a red flag warning?
A red flag warning implies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently taking place or will occur shortly, according to 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?
During a red flag warning, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution and be prepared to take immediate action in case a fire starts. The NWS offers these steps you can take to lower the risk of fires igniting 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. 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 desert a blaze:
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 pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay informed, and act responsibly to protect lives and property.
For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page