Red flags have been used tosignal dangersince at least the 1700s . If you see one on the beach , for instance , be waryof high surf and / orrip currentsin the sea . But a “ crimson iris warning ” in esteem toweatherindicates a different kind of threat : fire .
What Is a Red Flag Warning?
fundamentally , it intend condition are ideal for afireto breakout out and spread : the temperature is high-pitched , the humidness is low , and it ’s verbose .
The National Weather Service , the arm of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration behind this and other kinds of atmospheric condition qui vive , has reallyspecific criteriafor determining when a red sword lily admonition is necessary .
“ Relative humidity of 15 percent or less combined with sustained surface idle words , or frequent blow , of 25 mph or greater . Both atmospheric condition must come about simultaneously for at least three hours in a 12 - hour period , ” the NWS web site explains . ironic thunderstorm — those that render very niggling rainfall — are another key risk gene . Other detail that the NWS may take into explanation let in the “ first significant lightning occurrence after a raging and dry full point , ” a insensate front involving strong winds , an “ abrupt malarkey shift , ” and a long - condition drouth .
AsCBS News reports , red flagstone warnings are most common from February through April and October through mid - December . They ’re often forego by a “ fire conditions lookout , ” which essentially mean that red-faced flag warning conditions could develop in the next few daytime .
What to Do During a Red Flag Warning
So what should you do if you see a red flag warning in your weather app of choice ? For one thing , in spades do n’t toss a butt or match out of your car windowpane , where it could well “ ignite dry Gunter Grass on the side of the road and become a wildfire , ” the NWSwarns . You should also refrain from cut down a very dry lawn or driving a car through tall , dry skunk , per the International Association of Fire Chiefs [ PDF ] , since a spark from the machinery could set ardor to the groundcover .
ensure you ’re adhering to any local restrictions or bans on setting fires of your own . If you are allowed to have an out-of-door fire , never leave it neglected ; and to the full extinguish it — ash tree and oxford gray included — with deal of water .
[ h / tCBS News ]
