CONTACT: CAL FIRE Duty PIO, (916) 651-3473, Calfire.dutypio@fire.ca.gov

RELEASE DATE: October 14, 2026

CAL FIRE Urges Residents to Prepare for Red Flag Warning, Prevent Wildfires

SACRAMENTO, CA — CAL FIRE is urging residents across California to prepare for critical fire weather conditions and take precautions to prevent wildfires.

Much of the Sierra Range and foothills from Tulare County in the South to Plumas and Tehama counties in the north will be under Red Flag Warning from midnight tonight to 10 a.m. Friday, October 16, 2026.

A Red Flag Warning is also in effect for parts of Los Angeles, Ventura, Kern counties from Thursday morning, October 15, through Friday night, October 16, 2026.

A Red Flag Warning will also be in effect across eastern Lake County 4 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, October 15, 2026.

Fire Weather Watches will also be in effect in parts of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties Thursday, October 15, through the afternoon of Friday, October 16, 2026.

"California is taking proactive steps to protect communities ahead of Santa Ana winds and critical fire weather. By positioning firefighters, engines, aircraft and specialized equipment in areas facing the greatest risk, we are helping local fire departments respond quickly when every second counts. We will continue working with our partners statewide to ensure they have the personnel, equipment and resources necessary to keep Californians safe throughout this wind event," said California Governor Gavin Newsom in a statement released earlier today.

Residents are urged to avoid activities that could start a wildfire and take steps now to prepare for an emergency. Even a small spark can have devastating consequences under these conditions.

Moderate to locally strong winds, low humidity and dry conditions are expected to create a high risk for extreme fire behavior if a wildfire starts. Northeast to east winds of 20 to 40 mph, with gusts reaching 50 to 70 mph, and relative humidity as low as 8 to 20 percent could allow fires to spread rapidly and threaten lives, homes and communities. Residents should also be prepared for power shutoffs due to high winds.

CAL FIRE recommends residents take the following precautions:

• Avoid activities that could create sparks. Do not use equipment that could ignite dry vegetation, and postpone outdoor work involving power tools, welding or grinding.
• Use vehicles and equipment responsibly. Never park vehicles on dry grass, ensure trailer chains are secured and off the ground, and avoid dragging metal parts that could create sparks.
• Prepare to evacuate. Review your evacuation plan, identify multiple routes out of your neighborhood and keep essential items ready to go.
• Stay informed. Download the AwareCA app for verified wildfire alerts and emergency information.
• Monitor local emergency notifications and sign up for alerts. Follow evacuation instructions from public safety officials.
• Create a safer space around your home, especially within the first five feet. Remove dead vegetation and other combustible materials within the first five feet of your home and keep evacuation routes clear.

Residents living near wildlands should be especially vigilant and ready to evacuate if a wildfire develops. Conditions can change quickly, and delaying an evacuation can put lives at risk.

For wildfire preparedness resources, evacuation planning information and additional safety tips, visit ReadyForWildfire.org. Download the AwareCA app on Android or Apple IOS to access verified wildfire alerts and emergency information.