Red Flag Warning

What Is a Red Flag Warning

A Red Flag Warning is issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when conditions are favorable for extreme fire behavior.

These warnings are based on a combination of weather factors such as:

• Relative humidity below 15 percent, meaning vegetation is very dry and easily ignites
• Sustained winds above 25 mph or gusts over 35 mph that can spread fire rapidly
• Warm temperatures and dry fuels that increase fire intensity and rate of spread

In Vista, many neighborhoods lie within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), where homes meet natural vegetation. Red Flag Warnings help residents in these areas stay vigilant and prepared.

Red Flag Notification Program

The Red Flag Notification Program is a collaborative community effort among local schools, parks, City facilities, and partner agencies.

When the NWS issues a Red Flag Warning, participating sites raise a red flag at a visible location, such as a flagpole, main entrance, or park sign, to notify the public that dangerous fire weather is in effect.

Vista Fire Rescue Red Flag Warning

When You See the Red Flag, Use Caution.

A Red Flag Warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and stronger winds are expected to combine to increase the risk of fire.  When fire weather becomes extreme—high winds, low humidity, and dry fuels —Vista Fire Rescue activates the Red Flag Warning Program.
Red flags will be displayed at Vista schools and city facilities to alert the public that wildfire conditions are critical.

This visible signal reminds everyone in our community to stay alert and take precautions to prevent wildfire ignition.

What You Can Do During a Red Flag Warning

1. Avoid sparks. Postpone yard work that uses gas-powered equipment such as mowers, trimmers, and blowers. One small spark can start a large wildfire.
2. Skip open flames. Do not use fire pits, campfires, or BBQs near brush, canyons, or open space.
3. Stay alert and report early. If you see smoke or fire, call 9-1-1 immediately. Early reporting saves minutes, and minutes saves homes.
4. When leaving your home make sure you close all windows and garage doors.
5. Move combustible items at least five feet away from your home.

Be Ready to Go

During Red Flag conditions, fire can spread faster than usual. Prepare ahead of time by knowing two ways out of your neighborhood, keeping your phone charged and alerts turned on, and having medications, important documents, and essentials ready in a grab-and-go bag.

If evacuation orders are issued, leave immediately.

Resources

» Prepare for Wildfire
» SDG&E Weather
» Protect Genasys
» Alert San Diego
» Watch Duty