==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.
==The Red Flag Warning announced by the
National Weather Service predicts gusty offshore winds and dry conditions. This weather window lasts from
Sunday, October 10 at 11pm until Tuesday, October 12 at 5pm.
==For Berkeley, the greatest risk is predicted to be during the day on Monday. Fires that start during Red Flag Warnings can spread quickly.
==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:
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Leave your phone on to receive alerts even if you are sleeping.
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Know your evacuation zone, which will be used for evacuation messages.
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Put your go-bag by the front door.
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Plan multiple evacuation routes, including two by foot.
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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, 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.
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