In response to a red flag warning issued by the Storm Prediction Center, an 'extremely critical' fire weather risk level has been designated for over 2 million individuals in Southern California. This heightened risk level is a result of the combination of strong winds and dry air, which are key factors contributing to the increased potential for wildfires.
The Storm Prediction Center categorizes fire weather risk into three levels: elevated, critical, and extremely critical. The severity of the risk level is determined by the intensity of the winds and the level of humidity in the air. When there is a significant deviation from normal climatological conditions, such as dry air and strong winds, the risk level is elevated to 'extremely critical.'
While only five days in 2024 met the criteria for an 'extremely critical' designation, this year has already seen three days, including Monday and Tuesday, reaching this level. This trend underscores the urgency of the current fire weather conditions in Southern California.
In addition to the fire risk levels related to wind and humidity, the Storm Prediction Center also monitors fire risk levels associated with thunderstorms and the likelihood of lightning strikes. However, experts suggest that these levels are unlikely to be a concern this week due to the dry forecast for the Los Angeles County area.
The proactive measures taken by the Storm Prediction Center serve as a crucial warning system to alert residents and authorities to the heightened risk of wildfires. It is essential for individuals in the affected areas to remain vigilant and adhere to any safety guidelines provided to mitigate the potential impact of these extreme fire weather conditions.
