SBCFD
MOUNTAINS, FOOTHILLS OF SANTA BARBARA COUNTY AND SANTA BARBARA SOUTH COAST
The National Weather Service Los Angeles has issued a Red Flag Warning, effective from Tuesday at 4 PM through 4 AM Wednesday, November 6th, 2024. This warning comes from gusty winds and dry conditions expected to impact the foothills, mountains of Santa Barbara County, and south coast of Santa Barbara.
A Red Flag Warning signals that critical fire weather conditions are either imminent or occurring. The combination of strong winds, low humidity, and high temperatures creates an environment where extreme fire behavior is possible. If a fire ignites, rapid spread and intense fire behavior are likely, posing serious risks to life and property.
- Wind Conditions
- Increasing NW-N winds afternoon/night across Santa Barbara County
- Strongest winds focused across mountains/foothills of Santa Barbara County, Santa Barbara south coast, Hwy 33 corridor (gusts 35-55 mph, isolated gusts to 60 mph in Santa Barbara mountains/Montecito Hills)
- Humidity: 15-20% in Red Flag Warning areas
- Temperature: 70s on Tuesday
- If a fire starts, conditions will likely lead to extreme fire behavior and rapid fire spread, which could threaten both life and property.
Safety Precautions for Residents:
Residents are urged to take the following precautions during a Red Flag Warning to help prevent fires and stay safe:
- Check local weather forecasts using sites that provide hourly temperature predictions and other weather conditions for your location.
- Have an evacuation plan in place with at least two exit routes from your neighborhood. If fire or law enforcement officials advise evacuation, do so immediately.
- Review Ready, Set, Go! for preparedness tips. Visit:
- Report any signs of smoke immediately by calling 911 (if calling from a cell phone, be prepared to provide your exact location).
- Use extreme caution when operating spark-producing or flame-producing equipment in grass or brush areas.
- Avoid hiking or other front-country trail activities during the Red Flag Warning period.
- Report any suspicious activity to law enforcement, including unknown persons or vehicles.
That’s a warning after the warning is over. Was anyone blown over?
Only if you’re a v e r y s l o w reader.
RUBY – I wonder how many residents in Ventura County appreciate these types of warnings on a day like today? Go tell them what you think.