A Red Flag Warning issued for the hills of Berkeley and much of the East Bay means that hills residents need to be ready to evacuate, and should take precautions to stop fires before they start.
Berkeley, California (Sunday, October 10, 2021) - A Red Flag Warning issued for the hills of Berkeley and much of the East Bay means that hills residents need to be ready to evacuate, and should take precautions to stop fires before they start.
The Red Flag Warning announced by the National Weather Service predicts gusty offshore winds and dry conditions. This weather window lasts from 11pm on Sunday, October 10 until 5pm on Tuesday, October 12.
For Berkeley, the greatest risk is forecasted to be during the day on Monday, October 11. Fires that start during Red Flag Warnings can spread quickly.
Use extreme caution when operating BBQs, power equipment or other heat sources such as idling cars. Remember that fireworks are always completely forbidden in Berkeley and surrounding areas. These steps can help prevent fires.
Prepare now to increase your control
Wildfires are now more frequent, destructive, and fast-moving than ever. Berkeley residents must change how we prepare and respond.
Take control before a fire starts:
- Leave your phone on to receive alerts even if you are sleeping.
- Know your evacuation zone, which will be used for evacuation messages.
- Put your go-bag by the front door.
- Plan multiple evacuation routes, including two by foot.
- Park off-street. Back your car into your driveway or garage, leaving streets clear for emergency vehicles.
Red Flag Warnings are an early indicator of fire risk. In 2020, Berkeley had 25 days in Red Flag Warning status.
Red Flag Warnings are not as severe or as rare as "Extreme Fire Weather" days, a narrow range of weather conditions underlying many of California's most destructive fires. During Extreme Fire Weather, which happened over two days in 2020, the Berkeley Fire Department recommends that residents make plans to leave the hills. This puts you in the most control and is the best way to ensure your safety.
Learn more on our wildfire webpage.
Links
- Wildfire Readiness for Berkeley residents
- Berkeley Fire Department recommends hills residents plan to stay elsewhere during "Extreme Fire Weather" (8/3/2021)
- Wildfire evacuation checklist: PDF | MS Word (large print and screen reader friendly)
- Wildfire readiness video series
- Fire weather planning tool: a step-by-step guide to create your household fire weather plan
- Vegetation management checklist: learn essential steps to improve your home's chance of surviving a wildfire
