Red flag warning in place for Central California until Thursday morning

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At 2:46 p.m. on Wednesday, the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA released a red flag warning in effect until Thursday at 9 a.m. The warning is for Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast, Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast, Santa Ynez Mountains Western Range, Santa Ynez Mountains Eastern Range, Santa Barbara County Interior Mountains, Southern Ventura County Mountains, Northern Ventura County Mountains and Interstate 5 Corridor.

Residents can expect winds to be northwest to north winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 30 to 50 mph, strongest in Sundowner wind prone areas of southern Santa Barbara County and relative humidity 10 to 25%.

"Gusty northwest to north winds, hot temperatures, and low relative humidity will produce the potential for critical fire-weather conditions through early Thursday," explains the NWS. "If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for extreme fire behavior, rapid fire growth, and long range spotting, which could threaten life and property. The hot air mass will also contribute to the potential for significant vertical plume growth."

This warning is in effect until Thursday at 9 a.m.

What does a red flag warning mean?

A red flag warning indicates that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently happening or will happen soon, as per the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire to spread rapidly.

What steps should you follow during a red flag warning?

A red flag warning demands vigilance and immediate readiness to respond to potential fires. The NWS provides these vital guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety:

1. Secure burn barrels:

In areas where controlled burning is sanctioned, make certain that burn barrels sport a weighty metal cover, equipped with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Mindful disposal of smoking materials:

Steer clear of haphazardly discarding lit cigarette butts and avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from moving vehicles. These innocuous-seeming actions can kindle dry vegetation, potentially spawning a wildfire.

3. Properly extinguish outdoor fires:

To safeguard against accidental fires, diligently extinguish all outdoor fires. Drown them with an ample amount of water and stir to confirm that everything is cold to the touch. Submerge charcoal in water until it's thoroughly cooled. Never dispose of live charcoal on the ground.

4. Never leave fires unattended:

Refrain from leaving any fire unattended. Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand.

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in mitigating the risk of wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay well-informed, and act responsibly to safeguard lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published July 15, 2026 at 2:49 PM.