California emergency services officials have "strategically" placed fire engines and water tenders in Lake and Colusa counties ahead of critical fire weather conditions that are expected in parts of Northern California through Friday evening, authorities said Thursday.
Gusty winds, high temperatures and low humidity were forecast to start on Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Sacramento, which issued a red flag warning for parts of inland Northern California stretching from Mendocino County to San Joaquin County — and including part of Solano County — through 8 p.m. Friday.
The weather service issues red flag warnings when there is an increased risk of extreme fire danger. Meteorologists said temperatures could reach the low 100s in the valleys, and state officials said wind gusts may reach up to 35 to 45 mph and could be stronger in "wind-prone mountain areas."
Officials with the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services said on Thursday that authorities "strategically prepositioned critical fire resources" in the two Northern California counties, including: three engines, one water tender and one dispatcher in Lake County; and four engines and one water tender in Colusa County.
"The public is urged to remain aware of their surrounding conditions and to avoid outdoor activities that can cause a spark near dry vegetation," state emergency officials said in a statement, adding that residents should prepare an emergency plan and fill their vehicle gas tanks. "Sign-up for emergency alerts, listen to local authorities and warnings, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary."
State emergency and weather service officials urged residents to avoid outdoor burning and other activities that could ignite dry vegetation in the region.
Residents should not use law mowers or drive on dry grass or brush, should ensure their vehicles don't have chains dragging on the ground, should safely dispose of cigarettes and matches, and should obey any regional burn bans, weather service officials said.
State officials said the Cal OES Warning Center and State Operations Center will monitor weather conditions and will "be ready for further resource requests as necessary."
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