Eureka, Calif. – Residents across Trinity, Humboldt, and Del Norte counties are under a Red Flag Warning Tuesday afternoon as thunderstorms and gusty winds heighten fire danger through 8 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, the warning runs from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a 10 to 20 percent chance of high-based thunderstorms across the region. These storms may bring dry lightning and erratic outflow winds capable of sparking new wildfires. Hot afternoon temperatures, combined with low humidity and breezy conditions, are expected to worsen the threat.
The greatest concern lies in inland areas of Trinity and Humboldt counties, where lightning strikes could quickly ignite vegetation already stressed by late-summer heat. Along the Del Norte coast, wind gusts may push any new fire starts into difficult terrain for fire crews to access.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor activities during storms, seek shelter indoors, and delay any work that could create sparks. Those living in rural and forested areas should be prepared to act quickly if a wildfire starts nearby.
The Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday, and additional advisories may be issued if dry storm chances persist.
