What is Red Flag warning? Fire warning issued in Southern California

Red Flag warning in parts of San Diego (Image via Pexels)
Red Flag warning in parts of San Diego (Image via Pexels)

Despite the cold weather, a Red Flag warning has been issued in Southern California due to the dry air by the National Weather Service. For the unversed, this warning alerts fire managers to focus on the lands that have a high chance of facing dangerous conditions due to fire.

This warning is put into effect when low humidity, warm temperatures, and strong winds combine in an environment to create an increased risk of fire.

These warnings are usually issued in the fall and spring seasons. These seasons occur from February 15 to April 30 and October 1 to December 15, respectively. Following the warning, officials are alert to be on the lookout for wildfires and shortened burns.

The regions of Southern California have been put on high alert for fires that can easily turn into wildfires. According to Fox 5, Santa Ana winds are bringing dry air to the region's mountains and valleys.

The Red Flag warning has been in effect from Monday at 10 am through Wednesday at 4 am.

Via X (formerly Twitter) the organization penned how the winds are creating a risky situation in the region,

"Santa Ana Winds are on the way tomorrow through Wednesday. Although many in the city of SD may only feel a breeze, winds will be gusty elsewhere, locally up to 70 mph. Take wildfire safety measures by creating defensible space around residences."

San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) has notified over 100 thousand people that their power might be cut off through Monday afternoon to reduce the risk of wildfires following the Red Flag warning.

The notifications to the customers were sent by the organization on Saturday. Moreover, they will monitor the conditions around the clock by their Emergency Operations Center.

Power will be restored as the weather conditions will improve.

Tips to stay safe amid Red Flag warning

The government has given several tips to people to stay safe during the Red Flag warning. They have asked citizens to avoid throwing matches out of their moving vehicles as they might ignite the dry grass on fire. Such a fire can easily turn into a wildfire due to the dry air flowing through the region.

They have also asked people to leave any kind of fire such as sparks and embers unattended as they can spread quickly in a supporting environment. Moreover, individuals are advised to extinguish outdoor fires properly.

People can pour water on fire till it is cold to touch. Later, they can dunk the charcoal in the water and leave it. Individuals must not throw live charcoal on the ground.

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Edited by Apoorva Jujjavarapu