LOS ANGELES, CA — A red flag warning is in effect across parts of Southern California as strong winds and extremely low humidity create dangerous fire conditions through 11 p.m. Saturday.
The warning covers areas in San Bernardino, Kern, Inyo and Tulare counties, where forecasters say any fire that starts could spread quickly.
Winds of 35 to 55 mph and humidity as low as 6% elevate the danger
The National Weather Service said the highest-risk areas include Death Valley National Park, the Mojave Desert, Morongo Valley, Yucca Valley and the Lower Colorado River Valley.
Forecasts call for gusts around 35 to 55 mph and humidity between 6% and 15%, conditions that can turn a spark into a fast-moving wildfire.
Cal Fire urges residents to prepare for possible evacuation
Cal Fire advised people in the warning area to get ready before a fire starts, including packing a go bag, signing up for alerts, preparing homes and reviewing evacuation plans.
The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services said it is coordinating with local authorities and prepositioning fire personnel and equipment in Inyo County.
Fire weather concerns stretch across the West as Utah battle continues
Fire weather warnings are also posted across much of the Western United States, including Arizona, Nevada and Utah, plus parts of Colorado and New Mexico, where dry fuel remains after a snow-starved winter.
Southeastern Utah is under a rare “particularly dangerous situation” alert while crews continue fighting the Cottonwood Fire, which had burned nearly 111 square miles and remained uncontained Friday.
Cal Fire warns about illegal fireworks ahead of the holiday
As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, Cal Fire reminded residents that only designated “safe and sane” fireworks are legal for personal use in California.
The agency said illegal fireworks can cause severe injuries, spark wildfires and lead to criminal penalties, including fines and jail time.
Stay updated with Hart Smoke Signal.
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