Los Angeles

Red Flag Warning Issued Across the Southland Until Monday

The combination of strong offshore winds and warm temperatures will bring critical fire weather conditions

With temperatures on the rise and gusting winds in the forecast, a red flag warning of elevated wildfire danger goes into effect across the Southland Saturday night and continues until Monday.

The warning will take effect at 10 p.m. Saturday and continue until 3 p.m. Monday in the Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area, Los Angeles County mountains, Angeles National Forest and the Santa Clarita and San Fernando valleys, according to the NBC4 meteorologist David Biggar. It will be in effect from 7 p.m. Saturday to 4 p.m. Monday in Orange County inland areas and the Cleveland National Forest.

The threat comes thanks to a high-pressure system moving into the area that will lead to a moderate to strong Santa Ana wind event, according to Biggar. Forecasts said humidity levels could drop to the single digits in some areas, coupled with wind gusts of 55 to 65 mph in the mountains and 40 to 50 mph in the valleys.

Heightened fire danger is also possible in Los Angeles County coastal areas. 

Newly sparked fires will have the potential to grow into a large fire and spread at rapid speeds.

Orange County Fire Authority Capt. Steve Concialdi said that due to the winds and increased fire danger, the OCFA will have its 22-person firefighting hand crew on alert for 24-hour shifts. It will also fully staff two bulldozers, two water-dropping helicopters and five water tenders.

Concialdi reminded residents to stay vigilant during this wind event and prepare themselves in case they have to quickly evacuate their homes.

NBC4'S David Biggar contributed to this report. 

Copyright CNS - City News Service
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