Red Flag Warning for Santa Barbara County This Weekend

A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service this weekend for the Santa Barbara County interior mountains and surrounding areas.

The warning is in effect from 1:00 p.m. Saturday until 5:00 a.m. Sunday due to strong, damaging winds and low humidities.

The warning area covers the I-5 corridor, Ventura mountains, Santa Barbara interior mountains and the Antelope Valley.

Additionally, a Fire Weather Watch is in effect during the same time frame for the eastern Santa Ynez Mountains. NWS elevated the warning to brief critical fire weather conditions for all remaining mountains, interior areas, and southern Santa Barbara County.

A Red Flag Warning is issued when critical fire weather conditions are expected. These conditions include strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures, which together create a high potential for rapid wildfire ignition and spread.

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department states if fire ignition occurs, there is a high risk of rapid fire spread, extreme fire behavior, and long-range spotting, which could threaten life and property. Additionally, downed trees, power lines, and power outages are possible.

NWS has also issued a wind hazard event beginning Friday through Saturday evening throughout most of the Central Coast. Damaging wind gusts up to 65 mph have expanded across the area with peak timing for most areas likely to be Sunday afternoon/evening. There will be a higher risk for downed trees and powerlines as well as power outages

Precautions for Citizens:

The Santa Barbara County Fire Department strongly encourages residents to take the following steps to protect lives and property:

• Report any sign of smoke immediately to your local fire department by calling 911 (if you call 911 from your cell phone, you must know your location).
• Avoid operating spark or flame-producing machinery in hazardous grass or brush areas.
• Review Ready, Set, Go! for detailed preparedness information: https://sbcfire.com/ready-set-go
• Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid hiking activities in the warning areas.
• Have an evacuation plan in place and identify two exit routes from your neighborhood. If you are asked to evacuate by fire or law enforcement officials, do so immediately.
• Report any suspicious persons or vehicles to law enforcement.