Fall is when Northern California is most at risk for destructive wildfires. Here’s why

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Milder weather is finally here to stay, but with the cooler temperatures comes an important reminder: this time of year is when California’s wildfire risk is highest.According to Cal Fire, eight of California’s 10 most destructive wildfires started in either September, October or November. At this point in the season, it has been months without substantial rainfall for the region. All fuel types including grasses, brush and large trees are at their driest. When fuels are dry, they can ignite easily and burn fast and hot. Regardless of weather conditions, the risk for a wildfire is high and will remain so for the Valley, Foothills and Sierra until a few rounds of soaking rain come through.Don’t be fooled by cooler weatherThe threat of a wildfire may feel more urgent during the hot summer months. But fires can start and spread whether air temperatures are in the 100s or in the 60s. When it comes to weather conditions, humidity and wind increase that risk the most.Dry, windy days tend to happen more frequently during the fall season. This happens as the storm track starts to drop farther south, sending weather systems north and east of Northern California. These days are what forecasters and fire experts watch for when looking for days with a particularly elevated wildfire risk.North wind expected FridayNorthern California’s wildfire risk is expected to increase further at the end of this week.A weather system passing to our north and east will trigger a strong north breeze in some areas Thursday night through Friday. The gustiest winds are expected on the west side of the Sacramento Valley as well as the delta region. Humidity levels are also expected to be very low, especially on Friday afternoon. The combination of gusty winds and dry air has prompted a Fire Weather Watch from the National Weather Service. That will be in effect from midday Thursday through Saturday evening. This may be elevated to a Red Flag Warning later this week.Here are key websites that are important for all Californians during wildfire season.Cal Fire wildfire incidents: Cal Fire tracks its wildfire incidents here. You can sign up to receive text messages for Cal Fire updates on wildfires happening near your ZIP code here.Wildfires on federal land: Federal wildfire incidents are tracked here.Preparing for power outages: Ready.gov explains how to prepare for a power outage and what to do when returning from one here. Here is how to track and report PG&E power outages.Keeping informed when you’ve lost power and cellphone service: How to find a National Weather Service radio station near you.Be prepared for road closures: Download Caltrans’ QuickMap app or check the latest QuickMap road conditions here.| MORE | A 2024 guide for how to prepare for wildfires in California | Track fire conditions across Northern California regions with our Fire Threat Index

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