UPDATE: Red flag warning in place for Northern California until early Thursday evening

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At 9:42 a.m. on Wednesday, the NWS Sacramento CA issued an updated red flag warning valid from 11 a.m. until Thursday 5 p.m. The warning is for South-Central Shasta County Including Redding Metro, Northern Sacramento Valley in Tehama County, Central Glenn County Including Interstate 5, Eastern Glenn County, Butte County Below 1000 ft, Western Glenn and Colusa County Foothills Between 1000-3000 ft, Central Colusa County Including Interstate 5, Eastern Colusa County, Sutter and Yuba counties Below 1000 ft, Capay Hills of Yolo County and Vaca Hills of Solano County, Western Yolo County Including Capay Valley and Interstate 505 and Central Yolo and Northeast Solano counties Including Woodland and Davis.

Residents can expect winds to be north winds 15 to 25 mph. Gusts 30 to 40 mph, strongest along the far western Sacramento Valley and humidity daytime minimum humidities of 9 to 15%; Overnight maximum relative humidities 25 to 50%.

"The combination of gusty winds and low humidity can cause fire to rapidly grow in size and intensity. Outdoor burning is not recommended," comments the NWS.

This warning is in effect until Thursday at 5 p.m.

What is the significance of a red flag warning?

A red flag warning signifies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently in effect or will be shortly, as stated by the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire to spread rapidly.

What steps should you follow during a red flag warning?

During a red flag warning, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution and be prepared to take immediate action in case a fire starts. The NWS offers these steps you can take to lower the risk of fires igniting and ensure your safety:

1. Bolster burn barrel safety:

In areas where controlled burning is sanctioned, make certain that burn barrels sport a weighty metal cover, equipped with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Responsible disposal of smoking materials:

Never discard lit cigarette butts outside, and avoid tossing cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle. These seemingly small actions can lead to dry grass ignition, potentially sparking a wildfire.

3. Properly extinguish outdoor fires:

To prevent inadvertent fires, diligently douse all outdoor fires. Quench them with a copious deluge of water and stir to guarantee complete cooling. Submerge charcoal until it's thoroughly bereft of residual heat. Never depart from live charcoal unattended.

4. Never leave fires unattended:

Refrain from leaving any fire unattended. Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand.

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay informed, and act responsibly to protect lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published June 9, 2026 at 9:43 AM.