URGENT: Red Flag Warning, Wind Warning issued for

Courtesy of the City of Escondido.
The National Weather Service in San Diego has issued a Red Flag Warning, citing an imminent and “particularly dangerous situation” for the Inland Empire, inland Orange County, the Santa Ana Mountains, the Inland Empire, and the San Bernardino mountain foothills. Extreme fire weather conditions are expected due to strong Santa Ana winds, critically dry air, and dry fuels.

The warning remains in effect from Tuesday afternoon through Thursday, with the most dangerous conditions anticipated from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday. Officials warn that any fire ignitions during this period could lead to rapid wildfire spread, posing severe risks to life and property.

Key Details of the Warning

  • Winds: Northeast winds are forecasted at 20 to 50 mph, with gusts ranging from 50 to 75 mph, particularly below the Cajon Pass and on the coastal slopes of the San Bernardino County mountains.
  • Humidity: Relative humidity is expected to plummet to 10–15% on Wednesday, with some areas reaching as low as 8–15% by Thursday. Poor overnight recovery will exacerbate the fire danger.
  • Impacts: Strong winds and dry conditions may damage property, create hazardous driving conditions, and make outdoor burning highly dangerous.

Areas Affected

  • San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys: Including the Inland Empire and the San Bernardino County Mountains.
  • San Diego and Riverside County Mountains, San Diego Valleys, and the San Gorgonio Pass: A warning is in effect from Wednesday morning through Thursday.
  • Coastal Orange County: The warning is in effect from late Tuesday through Wednesday.

Precautionary Measures

Residents in the affected regions are urged to avoid any outdoor burning and secure loose items that could be damaged by high winds. Drivers should exercise caution, especially in areas with reduced visibility and strong gusts.

The Red Flag Warning signals that conditions for extreme fire behavior are either occurring or imminent. Authorities emphasize the need for vigilance and preparedness, as even small fires could escalate rapidly under these conditions.

For updates and emergency information, residents are advised to monitor local news and official weather alerts.

Julie Reeder
Julie Reeder