What is a Red Flag Warning? Meaning, causes and why this weather alert matters
A Red Flag Warning is a critical alert issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when weather and environmental conditions increase the risk of wildfires. Factors such as heat, low humidity, strong winds, and dry debris make fires more likely and dangerous. During such warnings, even small sparks from everyday activities can quickly ignite fires, prompting restrictions like bans on open burning.