RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT THROUGH 8 PM PDT THURSDAY FOR MOST INTERIOR MOUNTAIN AREAS INCLUDING THE SANTA YNEZ RANGE AND THE SANTA LUCIAS. .Extremely hot and dry conditions remain on track through Thursday, with extremely deep mixing heights of 12,000 to 20,000 feet each afternoon. Minimum humidities between 5 and 15 percent will be common in the mountains and valleys, especially today. These conditions are similar to the early September heat wave that brought 3 large fires to the area (including the Bridge Fire). Adding to the threat are significant north winds tonight over mountain and foothill areas with gusts between 25 to 40 mph. With critically dry fuels and the high risk for large plume dominated fires, Red Flag Warnings are in effect for the highest risk areas that also have those north wind potential. * TEMPERATURES. Highs 100 to 110 degrees common and mixing heights peaking at 12,000 to 20,000 feet each afternoon. Minimum temperatures of 75 to 85 degrees will be common, especially in the foothills. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY. Minimum humidity 5 to 15 percent each day, with very poor overnight recovery of 12 to 25 percent. * WINDS. North to northeast winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts 25 to 35 mph. Isolated gusts to 40 mph possible. * IMPACTS. If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for large vertical plume growth, rapid fire spread, and extreme fire behavior which would threaten life and property.
