Red Flag Warning Extended Amid Gusty Winds in Northern Nevada 8/18

Photo byNational Weather Service

Critical Fire Conditions Expected Through Sunday

RED FLAG WARNING FOR GUSTY WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY

Issued by the National Weather Service at 7:57 PM PDT on August 17, 2024. - The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Northern Nye County, Mojave, and Central Nevada, which remains in effect from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM PDT Sunday. The warning highlights the potential for critical fire conditions fueled by gusty winds and extremely low relative humidity, making it a high-risk period for fire outbreaks.

According to the advisory, residents in Fire Weather Zones 426 and 427 should be on high alert for conditions that could spark and rapidly spread wildfires. Winds are expected to sustain at 15 to 25 mph, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph. Paired with relative humidity dropping as low as 6%, these factors combine to create dangerous fire weather.

CONDITIONS RIPE FOR EXTREME FIRE BEHAVIOR

Meteorologists warn that the combination of these conditions could lead to extreme fire behavior, which could jeopardize both safety and property in affected areas. The Red Flag Warning, which expired briefly at 8:00 PM Saturday, will be reinstated Sunday as winds and dry conditions persist.

Local fire agencies urge residents and visitors in these regions to refrain from outdoor burning, exercise caution with any open flames, and report any signs of smoke immediately. Emergency preparedness plans should be reviewed and ready for implementation, as fire-prone areas remain on edge.

PREPARE FOR DANGEROUS FIRE WEATHER

As this fire-prone weekend continues, local authorities and the National Weather Service emphasize preparedness and caution. People living in the affected regions are advised to follow fire safety protocols strictly and be aware of the rapidly changing conditions.

Weather Watches, Warnings & Advisories are frequently updated. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, or your local news sources and NOAA All Hazards Radio.