Update: Fire Weather Watch Issued For The Mother Lode, Stanislaus Forest
The National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for the Mother Lode, the Stanislaus National Forest and the Northern San Joaquin Valley from Saturday morning through Monday morning.
North to east winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph are possible this weekend into Monday morning. The strongest winds are expected Saturday night through Sunday.
Poor humidity recovery is expected during this time frame as well, with daytime humidities ranging from ten to twenty percent. Maximum overnight humidity will be between fifteen to forty percent. Higher humidity recovery is expected in the Central Valley.
The combination of wind, low humidity and hot conditions could result in critical fire weather conditions which may impact ongoing wildfires.
Numerous wildfires are already occurring. Extreme fire safety precautions should be exercised to prevent any additional fires.
Additionally, the Air Quality Alerts issued by the Mariposa County and Tuolumne County Air Pollution Control Districts remains in effect for both counties, due to the smoke impacts from surrounding wildfires.
These Air Quality Alerts are in effect until the fires are extinguished.
Exposure to particle pollution can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, cause asthma attacks and acute bronchitis and increase the risk of respiratory infections.
Residents are advised to use caution as conditions warrant. People with heart or lung diseases should follow their doctor`s advice for dealing with episodes of unhealthy air quality. Additionally, older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure, strenuous activities or heavy exertion as conditions dictate.
For additional information, call your local Air District office:
Tuolumne County 209-533-5691
Mariposa County 888-777-0377
A Fire Weather Watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur.
