Hanford, CA – Elevated fire weather conditions are expected in eastern Kern County and the southern Sierra Nevada in Tulare County on Saturday, August 17, 2024, as temperatures soar and humidity plummets. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a fire weather alert for these regions, citing below-average fuel moisture, minimum relative humidity values below 10%, and sustained west winds of 20 to 25 mph with gusts reaching 35 mph. These factors create a high risk for fire initiation and rapid spread.
According to the NWS, residents in the affected areas should be prepared for potentially dangerous conditions. The NWS advises knowing evacuation routes, adhering to local burn bans, and avoiding dragging parts or chains from vehicles to prevent sparks.
The heat wave is expected to persist, with Hanford temperatures reaching 100°F on Friday, slightly cooling to 96°F on Saturday and 94°F on Sunday. The heat intensifies early next week, with highs forecasted at 98°F on Monday and 100°F on Tuesday. Residents should take precautions against heat-related illnesses, especially during peak afternoon hours.
As the weekend approaches, Californians in fire-prone areas are urged to stay informed about local weather updates and to be vigilant about fire safety measures.
