San Diego, CA – A Red Flag Warning remains in effect through 10 a.m. Friday, covering a vast portion of Southern California, an area roughly the size of New Jersey. The warning includes regions from San Diego County to Ventura County, encompassing mountains, inland valleys, and several urbanized zones.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the affected area includes the Inland Empire, San Gorgonio Pass, San Diego County mountains and valleys, the Santa Ana Mountains, and parts of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. Winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 60 mph in canyons and passes, combined with humidity levels as low as 2%, create extreme fire risks.
NWS officials stated that winds are expected to weaken overnight, but dry conditions will persist through Friday, elevating the potential for rapid fire spread. The warning underscores the vulnerability of the region’s dry vegetation, where any spark could ignite a fast-moving wildfire.
Residents are urged to avoid activities that could cause sparks, such as outdoor machinery use, and prepare for potential evacuations in wildland interface areas. Officials recommend visiting readyforwildfire.org for preparedness tips.
This warning impacts millions across densely populated urban areas and rugged mountain terrain, underscoring the continued fire risk in a region already stretched by dry conditions and strong winds.
