Red Flag Warning in Effect: High Winds and Fire Risk Across the Bay Area and Central Coast

Photo byNational Weather Service

Bay Area faces extreme fire weather through Saturday afternoon with gusty winds and low humidity creating dangerous wildfire conditions.

San Francisco — Issued by the National Weather Service at 1:18 AM PDT on October 19, 2024.

Extreme Fire Weather Conditions Threaten Bay Area and Central Coast

A Red Flag Warning remains in effect across the Bay Area and Central Coast until 5 PM Saturday, as powerful offshore winds and critically low humidity heighten the risk of wildfire outbreaks. This dangerous weather event, fueled by a high-pressure system over the Great Basin and low pressure in the Desert Southwest, has already resulted in six new fire starts across the region.

Gusty Northeasterly Winds Pose Wildfire Threat

• Peak Wind Speeds:
• • Mt. St. Helena reported gusts up to 75 mph.
  • Most ridgetops and passes experienced gusts of 50 mph, with sustained winds between 25-35 mph.
• Critical Periods:
• • Friday night through Saturday morning will see the most intense conditions before winds gradually decrease.

Residents should take extra precautions to avoid sparking fires, as low wind speeds alone won’t eliminate the wildfire threat. With humidity levels as low as 10% and limited overnight recovery, dry conditions will persist in the region’s higher elevations.

What to Expect After the Red Flag Warning Ends

Winds are forecast to decrease Saturday afternoon, and the offshore pressure gradient will gradually weaken. This will bring a warming trend, with temperatures rising 10-20 degrees above normal by midweek. By Thursday, a surface low-pressure system from the Pacific Northwest may bring 40% rain chances to the Bay Area, offering some relief.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast – Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by the National Weather Service. Please look for updates to this report from your local news channels and NOAA All Hazards radio. Follow ThumbWind Publications for more local weather and news updates.

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