San Francisco, California – Gusty winds and bone-dry conditions are driving a near-critical fire weather threat through Saturday for much of the Bay Area, especially in the interior East Bay, eastern Santa Clara Hills, and the Gabilan Range of Monterey and San Benito Counties.
According to the National Weather Service in San Francisco, wind gusts of 25 to 40 mph combined with afternoon humidity levels between 15 and 25 percent are creating a heightened risk for fast-moving grass fires. Officials warn the risk is particularly elevated in dry brush and open terrain.
The most vulnerable areas include the Diablo Range foothills, Altamont Pass, and stretches of Highway 152 near Pacheco Pass. Residents are urged to secure tow chains, properly extinguish cigarettes, avoid using spark-generating equipment like mowers, and keep water sources near open flames.
This pattern mirrors similar early-summer fire conditions seen in 2021 and 2022, where dry offshore winds fueled rapid fire spread in unincorporated valleys. Cal Fire remains on alert, and red flag warnings could be issued if conditions worsen.
Fire weather concerns are expected to ease by Sunday, but dry, breezy conditions may return next week.
