Red Flag Warning: What You Need to Know
April 12, 2023, 4:30 p.m. News
Read time estimation: 4 minutes.
A red flag warning is a heads-up from the National Weather Service that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. That means warm temperatures, low humidity, high winds, and dry vegetation are creating ideal conditions for wildfires. Red flag warnings are issued for specific counties, and they’re usually in effect for 12 hours. If you live in an area under a red flag warning, be extra careful with anything that could start a fire. That includes cigarettes, grilling, and even driving. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.Here are a few things you should know about red flag warnings.What Does a Red Flag Warning Mean?A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. That means warm temperatures, low humidity, high winds, and dry vegetation are creating ideal conditions for wildfires. Red flag warnings are issued for specific counties, and they’re usually in effect for 12 hours. If you live in an area under a red flag warning, be extra careful with anything that could start a fire. That includes cigarettes, grilling, and even driving. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.What Counties Are Under a Red Flag Warning?Red flag warnings are issued by the National Weather Service for specific counties. The warnings are usually in effect for 12 hours. What Should I Do If I’m Under a Red Flag Warning?If you’re under a red flag warning, be extra careful with anything that could start a fire. That includes cigarettes, grilling, and even driving. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.Here are a few things you can do to stay safe during a red flag warning:• Don’t smoke• Don’t grill• Don’t use fireworks• Don’t mow dry grass• Don’t drive through dry grass• Don’t throw lit cigarettes out the window• Don’t camp in dry grass• Don’t build a campfire• Don’t use power tools in dry grass• Don’t weld in dry grass• Don’t do anything that could start a fireIf you see a fire, report it immediately. And if you’re ordered to evacuate, do so immediately.What Should I Do If I’m Ordered to Evacuate?If you’re ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. Don’t wait to see if the fire is getting closer. And don’t try to outrun the fire.When you evacuate, take the following items with you:• Driver’s license• Insurance cards• Credit cards• Cash• Medications• Important documents (birth certificates, passports, etc.)• Clothes• Toiletries• Food and water• Bedding• Toys and games (for kids)• Pets (if time allows)• Cell phone and charger• GPS• MapIf you have time, turn off all utilities and close all windows and doors.When Should I Return Home?Don’t return home until authorities say it’s safe to do so. Even if your home is still standing, it could be unsafe. And if power lines are down, they could be live and dangerous.What Are the After-Effects of a Wildfire?The after-effects of a wildfire can be devastating. Not only can homes and businesses be destroyed, but lives can be lost. And the damage doesn’t stop there. The air quality can be affected for months, and the landscape can be changed forever.If you live in an area that’s been affected by a wildfire, be sure to follow the instructions of local authorities. And if you’re ordered to evacuate, do so immediately.
