What a Red Flag Warning means
A Red Flag Warning identifies weather and fuel conditions favorable for dangerous fire behavior. It does not mean a wildfire has been detected at your location. Local criteria account for the area’s vegetation and weather.
Avoid starting a fire
Postpone outdoor burning when dangerous fire weather is expected. Follow local restrictions, which may apply even without a weather warning. Dispose of cigarettes safely and keep vehicle or trailer equipment from dragging and creating sparks.
A fire can reignite
Embers can remain hot after visible flames disappear. Wind can carry those embers and start another fire. If burning is permitted, follow local fire department instructions and make sure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving it.
Check fire and evacuation updates
Read the weather warning for timing and expected conditions. For active fires, road closures and evacuation instructions, check messages from your local fire department or emergency management office. Check air quality separately; a fire weather warning does not tell you how much smoke is in the air.
Related alerts
Check current alerts about fire weather. You can change the location on the alerts page.
View related alerts