Residents in Trinity, Humboldt, and Del Norte counties should prepare for high fire danger Tuesday afternoon, as a Red Flag Warning has been issued due to the risk of dry thunderstorms, gusty winds, and hot, dry weather conditions. The warning is active from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Eureka.
When and Where Is the Fire Risk Highest?
The Red Flag Warning applies to inland and coastal areas across:
Trinity County
Humboldt County
Del Norte County
The greatest concern is focused on inland zones of Trinity and Humboldt counties, where lightning strikes could spark fires in dry, heat-stressed vegetation. Along the Del Norte coast, gusty winds could quickly spread any new fires into steep, rugged terrain, making it harder for fire crews to respond.
What’s Fueling the Fire Weather Alert?
Fire weather conditions are being driven by:
10–20% chance of dry thunderstorms: High-based storms may bring little to no rain, but dangerous lightning
Erratic outflow winds, with gusts that can spread flames quickly
Hot afternoon temperatures
Low humidity, further drying out vegetation
Late-summer dryness: Fuels are already highly flammable from the season’s heat
Safety Tips for Residents During the Red Flag Warning
Officials are urging the public to take extra precautions during this high-risk period. Here’s what you should do:
Avoid outdoor work involving sparks or open flames
Postpone yard work, welding, or target shooting
Stay indoors during thunderstorms
Have a wildfire evacuation plan if you live in a rural or forested area
Keep vehicles away from dry grass, as hot exhaust can ignite fires
Why Dry Lightning Is So Dangerous
Dry lightning occurs when a storm produces lightning but very little rain, increasing the chance of a wildfire ignition. In areas like Trinity and Humboldt, one strike in the right conditions can start a fast-moving fire, especially with the help of gusty winds that often follow storms.
These fires can begin in remote areas and spread before fire crews can even reach the scene, especially in mountainous or hard-to-access terrain.
Stay Alert and Be Prepared
The Red Flag Warning will remain in effect until 8 p.m. Tuesday, but additional advisories could be issued if weather conditions continue to support fire starts. Residents are encouraged to stay updated through:
Local news and emergency alerts
Fire agencies like CAL FIRE and your local county fire departments
At a Glance: Red Flag Warning Details
| Area Affected | Trinity, Humboldt, Del Norte counties |
|---|---|
| Warning Duration | Tuesday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. PDT |
| Main Threats | Dry lightning, gusty outflow winds |
| Risk Level | Elevated due to hot, dry, and breezy weather |
| Safety Urged | Avoid outdoor sparks, stay alert for wildfires |
