What is a Red Flag Warning?
A Red Flag Warning is a notice issued by the National Weather Service (NWS – www.weather.gov). It indicates that weather conditions in the next 24 hours may result in extreme fire behavior. Weather conditions may include:
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- Low relative humidity
- Strong winds
- Dry fuels
- Possibility of dry lightning strikes
Red Flag Warnings are often preceded by a Fire Weather Watch, a NWS notice that indicates weather conditions in the next 12-72 hours may result in extreme fire behavior, triggering a Red Flag Warning.
Watch the video below from our partners at Santa Clara County Fire Department (SCCFD) to learn more about Red Flag Warnings, things to avoid during Red Flag Warning conditions, how you can prepare if there is a fire, and how SCCFD responds to a Red Flag Warning.
During a Red Flag Warning day:
- Before leaving home for the day, close all of your house and car windows
- Move flammable materials, such as outdoor cushions, inside your home or garage
- Remove dead shrubbery around your house
- Keep in touch with local officials for up-to-date information regarding evacuation plans
Avoid:
- Avoid backyard fires or using burn barrels
- Avoid using power equipment that creates sparks
- Ensure any chains or metal pieces/accessories are secured to your vehicle or trailer to prevent possible sparks along roadways
- Keep your vehicle off dry grass
- Do not throw cigarettes or matches out of a moving vehicle
- CALFIRE Burn Permits are automatically canceled on Red Flag Warning Days – check CALFIRE’s Current Residential Burn Status webpage to determine if burning is suspended.
Be Aware During Red Flag Warnings
Sign up for AlertSCC to ensure you receive emergency alerts from Santa Clara County, whether you’re at home, work, or school.
Review your family evacuation plan and be ready to gather family members, pets and valuables in case an evacuation is required. Consider moving pets or livestock to safer areas until Red Flag Warning has ended.
Report any sign of smoke or fire immediately by dialing 9-1-1.
Do You Know the Difference?
It’s important to know the California Standard Statewide Evacuation Terminology so that you know what to do when evacuations are active or imminent. Learn more at calalerts.org/evacuations.html
Evacuation Order:
Immediate threat to life. This is a lawful order to LEAVE NOW. The area is lawfully closed to public access.
Evacuation Warning:
Potential threat to life and/or property. Those who require additional time to evacuate, and those with pets and livestock, should leave now.
Shelter in Place:
Go indoors. Shut and lock doors and windows. Prepare to self-sustain until further notice and/or contacted by emergency personnel for additional direction.
