Weekend wind and low humidity create fire risk for the Sacramento Valley
(FOX40.COM) — After a scorching hot start to the week, parts of the Sacramento Valley may experience weather conditions prone to fueling fires, according to the National Weather Service. Star… The National Weather Service has warned that low humidity and strong northern winds in the Sacramento Valley may create critical fire weather conditions for the weekend and early next week. These conditions are expected to continue through the week, following a hot start to the week that led to a scorching hot spell. The NWS has advised that vehicles should be kept off dry grass and matches and cigarettes should be disposed of properly to prevent potential wildfire outbreaks. The minimum daytime humidity is expected to be around 10 to 20% compared to a normal 43% of the 43%. This lack of humidity creates drier fuel conditions that are more likely to ignite and allow fires to spread quickly.
Published : 2 weeks ago by Matthew Nobert in
(FOX40.COM) — After a scorching hot start to the week, parts of the Sacramento Valley may experience weather conditions prone to fueling fires, according to the National Weather Service.
Starting Saturday, a combination of low humidity and strong northern winds will create critical fire weather conditions through the weekend and into the start of next week, according to the NWS.
The winds that will help keep temperatures lower than triple digits for the Valley also pose a threat to breathing life into potential wildland fires.
Forecasted wind speeds are to be between 10 to 20 mph, with gusts possibly peaking at 35 mph.
These warmer winds coupled with temperatures still in the 90s will also lead to lower humidity levels.
Minimum daytime humidity is expected to be around 10 to 20% compared to a normal relative humidity of around 43%.
This lack of humidity creates drier fuel conditions that are more likely to ignite and allow fires to spread more quickly with the accompanying wind.
The NWS advises that vehicles should be kept off dry grass, and matches and cigarettes should be disposed of properly to avoid creating sparks.
Sparks can be created by dragging trailer chains, mower blades striking rocks, chainsaws, grinders, welders and more.