Red Flag Warning Extended For Portions of Kaua‘i County

The National Weather Service in Honolulu has extended the red flag warning for parts of Kaua‘i County.

The red flag warning will now remain in effect until 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10. A fire weather watch remains in effect until 6 p.m. today (Wednesday, Aug. 9).

“A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly,” the NWS advisory says. “A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. A red flag warning does not predict new fire starts.”

The advisories are for the leeward sides of all islands, including Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau.

“The combination of dry fuels, strong and gusty trade winds and low relative humidity could produce extreme fire behavior on Wednesday, especially during the afternoon hours,” the advisory statement from the National Weather Service says. “Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and be difficult to control.”

Winds are forecast to be from the northeast to east at 20-30 mph with higher gusts. Humidity levels are also expected to be near 45 percent in the afternoon. No thunderstorm activity is expected.

The advisory reiterated that any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

“A fire weather watch means that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to occur,” the National Weather Service said in its earlier fire weather watch advisory.

For weather updates, call the National Weather Service automated weather line at 808-245-6001 or visit the NWS website.

To sign up for Inspiron Logistics, the county’s emergency notification service, click here or call the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency at 808-241-1800.