The National Weather Service in Eureka has issued a Red Flag Warning for Mendocino County, effective from 2 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, July 14, 2024, as an approaching upper low brings in a plume of monsoonal moisture.
Thunderstorm chances will begin to develop this afternoon across portions of Lake, Mendocino, and Trinity counties, with an increase in activity expected late tonight through Sunday. The dry surface environment will favor dry showers and likely dry thunderstorms, capable of producing gusty, erratic winds.
The warning affects fire weather zones 277 and 283, particularly northeast Mendocino County, including Round Valley, Laytonville, and the vast expanse of the Mendocino National Forest.
The dry thunderstorms are anticipated to bring gusty and erratic outflow winds, which, combined with the low relative humidity and warm temperatures, can lead to extreme fire behavior.
“Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly,” the NWS stated. “Outdoor burning is not recommended.”
Residents of Mendocino and Lake counties are urged to take precautionary measures to prepare for potential fire hazards. The combination of strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures contributes to critical fire weather conditions that are either occurring now or will shortly.
The following are safety tips to practice during Red Flag Warnings published by Nevada County:
- Be prepared for the possibility of a public utility power shut-off. Have food, lighting, water, and charged batteries that will last for several days.
- Prepare for quick evacuation.
- Park your vehicle towards the roadway and load your Go Bag.
- Know how to open your garage if power is unavailable.
- Be sure you have a full tank of gas.
- Keep pets nearby.
- Have a plan to transport large animals and livestock.High Fire Risk Sunday: Mendocino County Under Red Flag Warning
- Always check towing equipment and eliminate dragging hazards.
- Do not mow or trim dry grass.
- Do not use equipment outdoors that may create a spark.
- Never park on dry grass.
- Never burn on a Red Flag Warning day.
