For Immediate Release

August 15, 2020

Red Flag Warning In Effect for Marin County

Warning to remain in place until Sunday 11 AM.

Marin County, CA -- The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for the Entire Bay Area for predicted lighting, which is in effect from 11 PM this evening (Saturday) to 11 AM Sunday.

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are expected during this time frame.

Thunderstorms are forecast to develop over the South Bay and Santa Cruz region before midnight and then spread northward overnight.

Not all locations will see thunderstorms, but any lightning strikes will likely lead to new fire starts given the current heat wave.

For any land use restrictions or closures contact the appropriate land management agency:

The National Park Service Point Reyes National Seashore is 415-464-5100

The Mount Tamalpais State Park information number is 415-388-2070.

The Marin Municipal Water District information number is 415-945-1195.

The Marin County Fire Information Hotline number is 415-473-7191.

Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution during the Red Flag Warning because a simple spark could cause a major wildfire, including the use of equipment and machinery as well as smoking.

COOLING CENTER OPENED

Marin Public Health is opening a cooling center Saturday, August 15 through Tuesday, August 18, from 3:00pm to 7:00pm, at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall (10 Avenue of the Flags). Older adults who cannot safely stay cool at home can seek temporary relief at the air-conditioned San Rafael site. 

Defensible space is essential to improve your home’s chance of surviving a wildfire. 

To register for emergency alerts, visit www.alertmarin.org. To learn more about preparing for wildfire, visit www.firesafemarin.org.

###