Red Flag Warning

A weather advisory issued by meteorological agencies, such as the National Weather Service in the United States, to alert the public and firefighting personnel of critical fire weather conditions that can lead to rapid wildfire ignition, growth, and spread. Red Flag Warnings are typically issued when a combination of factors, such as low humidity, high temperatures, strong winds, and dry vegetation, create an environment conducive to extreme fire behavior. These warnings serve to heighten awareness and preparedness among residents, land managers, and firefighting crews, and may prompt increased restrictions on activities that could ignite fires. In legal disputes related to wildfires, such as the Calf Canyon/Hermit’s Peak Fire, issues may arise concerning the communication and response to Red Flag Warnings, the responsibility of involved parties in preventing and managing fires during these critical periods, and the potential impact of such warnings on the development and severity of wildfire events.