WATSONVILLE — With the first day of winter coming on Dec. 21, the fear of drought is once again in the air.
While Central California took on a good drenching earlier in the fall, a long stretch of dry weather has officials concerned. And there’s only a hint of rain on the horizon.
“There’s a slight chance of rain next week and after that there’s nothing for a while,” said Anna Schneider of the National Weather Service of Monterey. “The dry weather is a result of a ridge of high pressure. Any chance of rain will steer to the far north. But it’s still pretty early in the rainy season; we still have January and February.”
Officials at the Felton Command Center for Cal Fire said that in preparation for the forecasted wind event this weekend, they are pre-positioning extra fire equipment and personnel in the San Mateo – Santa Cruz Unit. In addition, Cal Fire is suspending all burn permits for outdoor burning within in San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Cruz counties.
The suspension will be lifted on Dec. 19.
The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for the higher elevations of the San Francisco and Monterey Bay areas. This will involve gusty north and northeast winds, low humidity and increased fire danger, officials said. The watch will remain in effect through 10 a.m. Sunday.
“Keep in mind, now is the time to start planning your defensible space around your home for next year’s fire season,” Cal Fire advised.
