SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Dangerous fire weather developed late Wednesday and lasts through Friday as dry, gusty winds bring an elevated risk of fast-spreading fire, especially on the west side of the Valley.
A Red Flag Warning will begin 11 a.m. Thursday and lasts until 8 p.m. Friday. Critical fire weather will blanket much of the Sacramento Valley, parts of the San Joaquin Valley, surrounding Sierra foothills and parts of the Coastal Valley communities. Dry, gusty winds will lower humidity and present the risk of rapid fire spread.
A Wind Advisory is also in place for the same areas and parts of the Sierra with moderate impacts to driving, trees, power and small objects.
The Sierra had recent snowfall that is helping to delay the onset of larger wildland fires. Grasses dry out quickly though, with dry and warm weather helping to elevate the fire danger and are of particular concern this time of year.
Vehicle and equipment safety checks can also help to prevent a spark:
- Secure towing chains and make sure nothing is dragging on the ground
- Properly maintain brakes since metal to metal contact can create a spark
- Don't drive vehicles on dry grass; hot pipes and mufflers can spark grass fires
- Carry a fire extinguisher
- Mow and weed before 10 a.m. when humidity is higher and temperatures are lower
- Never use equipment on dry grass
Lighter winds are expected for the weekend. Highs will be warming back to near 100° by early next week.
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