Central California under a red flag warning Wednesday and Thursday, says the NWS
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At 1:28 p.m. on Tuesday, the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA released a red flag warning valid from Wednesday noon until Thursday 9 a.m. The warning is for Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast, Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast, Santa Ynez Mountains Western Range, Santa Ynez Mountains Eastern Range, Santa Barbara County Interior Mountains, Southern Ventura County Mountains, Northern Ventura County Mountains and Interstate 5 Corridor.
The NWS states that the warning was issued for wind and low relative humidity. Winds are forecasted to be northwest to north winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 35 to 55 mph, strongest in Sundowner wind prone areas of southern Santa Barbara County and relative humidity 10 to 25%.
"Strong northwest to north winds, hot temperatures, and low relative humidity will produce the potential for critical fire-weather conditions late Wednesday through early Thursday," describes the NWS. "If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for extreme fire behavior, rapid fire growth, and long range spotting, which could threaten life and property. The hot air mass will also contribute to the potential for significant vertical plume growth."
This warning is in effect until Thursday at 9 a.m.
What is the significance of a red flag warning?
A red flag warning implies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently taking place or will occur shortly, according to the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire to spread rapidly.
What actions are necessary during a red flag warning?
A red flag warning demands vigilance and immediate readiness to respond to potential fires. The NWS provides these vital guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety:
1. Secure burn barrels:
If burning is authorized in your vicinity, ensure that all burn barrels feature a weighted metal cover with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.
2. Mindful disposal of smoking materials:
Steer clear of haphazardly discarding lit cigarette butts and avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from moving vehicles. These innocuous-seeming actions can kindle dry vegetation, potentially spawning a wildfire.
3. Prudent fire extinguishing practices:
To prevent inadvertent fires, diligently douse all outdoor fires. Quench them with a copious deluge of water and stir to guarantee complete cooling. Submerge charcoal until it's thoroughly bereft of residual heat. Never depart from live charcoal unattended.
4. Never desert a blaze:
Refrain from leaving any fire unattended. Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand.
Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay informed, and act responsibly to protect lives and property.
Source: The National Weather Service
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This story was originally published July 14, 2026 at 1:30 PM.