Fire Weather, Lingering Santa Ana Winds Extend Red Flag Warning In San Diego Area

SAN DIEGO, CA — Extremely dry air and lingering Santa Ana winds promoted the National Weather Service to extend a red flag warning for much of the San Diego region.

A red flag warning went into effect 4 a.m. Wednesday and was scheduled to last until 6 p.m. Thursday for San Diego County's mountains and valleys. The warning was extended until 6 p.m. Friday.

"Lingering Santa Ana winds and dry air will bring periods of critical fire weather conditions Thursday and Friday," NWS San Diego forecasters wrote Wednesday.

"Another peak in northeast to east winds is expected Thursday evening into Friday morning," forecasters added. "Warmer weather will occur Thursday, with slight cooling Friday with increased winds again, then warmer again Saturday with weaker winds. Cooler and breezy weather will prevail early next week."

Northeast winds from 15 to 20 mph are expected in the valleys, with gusts up to 35 to 50 mph, according to the NWS. Gusts up to 60 mph are expected in eastern portions of the valleys, especially near the mountain foothills. Northeast winds from 30 to 40 mph are expected in the mountains, with gusts up to 65 to 75 mph.

Winds will be weaker overnight Wednesday into Thursday afternoon, the NWS said. The strongest wind gusts are expected Thursday night into Friday morning.

The windy conditions will be accompanied by daytime humidity levels between 9 to 15%, according to the NWS.

"Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly," weather officials warned. "Outdoor burning is not recommended. Winds could damage outdoor property and will make for difficult driving conditions."

Also see:

• High Wind Warning Extended In Parts Of San Diego County
• More San Diego Area Schools Closed Due To High Winds, Power Shutoffs
• San Diego Humane Society Sends Help Amid Devastating SoCal Fires
• Thousands Without Power As Shutoffs Begin In San Diego County