NWS abruptly changes forecast, issues red flag fire warning for much of San Diego County – San Diego Union-Tribune

The National Weather Service abruptly changed its forecast, issuing a wildfire warning for much of San Diego County a day after announcing that the region would experience relatively weak Santa Ana winds.

The warning is in effect from 3 p.m. Wednesday to 7 p.m. Thursday in an area stretching from the county’s inland valleys and foothills to Interstate 15.

Many areas will experience winds of 30 to 45 miles per hour, particularly El Cajon, Alpine, Campo, Ramona, Escondido, Julian, Palomar Mountain and Mount Laguna.

Relative humidity will drop to 15 percent in some areas.

“Any fires that develop are likely to spread quickly,” the weather service said in a statement. “Outdoor burning is not recommended.”

Originally published: November 4, 2024 at 11:21 am PST