Red flag warnings of critical fire danger expired at 3 p.m. Monday — but more potentially dangerous winds, coupled with dry conditions, were in the forecast beginning Wednesday, the National Weather Service said.
“The previous red flag warning was allowed to expire on time, with no plans on extending,” the NWS said. “The next Santa Ana wind event remains on target. Winds will increase on Wednesday, peak Wednesday afternoon through Thursday morning, then gradually weaken through Saturday.”
The weather service said peak gusts of between 30 and 50 mph are expected, with isolated gusts to 60 mph.
What’s more, humidity levels will likely lower into the 2 to 8 percent range by Thursday and Friday.
“As such, red flag conditions are very likely for most of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties Wednesday through Thanksgiving Thursday, with a chance of continuing through Friday mainly over the valleys and mountains,” the weather service said.
Forecasters said the fire weather watches will likely be upgraded to new red flag warnings that will continue through Thanksgiving.
The earlier red flag warnings were in effect in the Los Angeles coastal region, including downtown, as well as the San Fernando, San Gabriel and Santa Clarita valleys, the Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area, Los Angeles County Mountains and the Angeles National Forest.
“High temperatures will peak for this event today (Monday), with highs between 77 and 87 common,” according to the NWS. “Humidities and temperatures will improve on Tuesday while northwest to north wind gusts of 20 to 35 mph will form over Santa Barbara County and the I-5 Corridor by the afternoon and evening.”