SACRAMENTO, Calif. — CAL FIRE is urging residents across portions of Northern California to take immediate wildfire preparedness measures as a Red Flag Warning takes effect Wednesday and continues through Thursday due to dangerous fire weather conditions.
According to CAL FIRE, the warning is being driven by a combination of gusty north winds, critically low humidity levels and warm temperatures that could contribute to rapid wildfire growth if a fire ignites.
The National Weather Service has forecast north winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts reaching 30 to 40 mph, particularly across the Northern Sacramento Valley, North Bay Interior Mountains and East Bay Hills. Relative humidity levels are expected to drop between 9% and 15% during daytime hours, creating conditions favorable for fast-moving wildfires.
The highest fire danger is expected along and west of the Interstate 5 corridor throughout the Sacramento Valley.
“Red Flag Warnings signal some of the most dangerous fire weather conditions we experience in California,” said Chief Daniel Berlant, California State Fire Marshal. “With dry vegetation, strong winds, and low humidity, a small spark can rapidly become a large wildfire. We are asking everyone to be vigilant and take steps now to reduce wildfire risk around their homes and communities.”
Conduct an Ember Check
CAL FIRE is encouraging residents to perform a quick "Ember Check" before winds increase.
Close It
- Close all windows and exterior doors.
- Close garage doors.
- Close pet doors and other openings.
- Ensure exterior vents are protected with no more than 1/8-inch mesh.
Clear It
- Remove leaves, pine needles and debris from roofs and gutters.
- Clear combustible materials from around structures.
Move It
- Move patio furniture, doormats, firewood, propane tanks, cardboard boxes, trash bins and other flammable items away from homes.
Additional Safety Tips
CAL FIRE also recommends residents:
- Avoid outdoor burning and activities that may create sparks.
- Properly secure trailer chains and avoid parking vehicles on dry grass.
- Keep cell phones charged and ensure emergency notifications are enabled.
- Review evacuation plans and prepare a Go Bag with essential items.
- Sign up for emergency alerts.
Officials emphasized that wind-driven embers can travel significant distances ahead of a wildfire and ignite homes and structures well before the main fire front arrives.
Wildfires can occur with little warning, making preparedness one of the most effective ways to reduce risk and improve safety during an emergency.
Residents can find wildfire preparedness resources, evacuation planning information, defensible space guidance and Ready, Set, Go! materials at ReadyForWildfire.org.
Current California fire weather updates from the National Weather Service are available through the California Fire Weather page.