San Francisco, California – A near-critical fire weather threat will take hold Thursday and persist through the weekend across parts of the Bay Area, with interior East Bay, the eastern Santa Clara Hills, and the Gabilan Range facing the highest risk.
According to the National Weather Service in San Francisco, the alert stems from sustained afternoon humidity between 15% and 25% combined with wind gusts reaching 20 to 35 mph. The dry, gusty conditions create a dangerous setup for fast-spreading grass fires, especially in parts of Monterey and San Benito Counties.
The NWS urges residents in the affected areas to secure tow chains, avoid activities that may generate sparks, and extinguish all smoking materials. Outdoor equipment that could create embers or open flames should be avoided entirely through at least Sunday.
Fire risk is particularly high in dry brush zones near Livermore, San Jose’s eastern edge, Hollister, and inland stretches near Salinas. These conditions are typical for June but more aggressive than average due to extended dry spells.
The elevated risk remains in effect through Sunday evening, and additional Red Flag Warnings may be issued if conditions worsen.
