A Red Flag Warning has been issued calling for gusty winds and low humidity. This warning indicates the onset of critical weather conditions conducive to extensive wildfire occurrences and the associated increase in fire danger.

This message is provided as a courtesy to Tahoetopia users. Please use extreme caution today!

URGENT - FIRE WEATHER MESSAGE National Weather Service Reno NV 605 AM PDT Thu Oct 19 2017 CAZ272-NVZ450-453-200100- /O.NEW.KREV.FW.W.0015.171019T1500Z-171020T0100Z/ Greater Lake Tahoe Area-Western Nevada Sierra Front- West Central Nevada Basin and Range- 605 AM PDT Thu Oct 19 2017

...RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM PDT THIS EVENING FOR GUSTY WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY FOR THE TAHOE BASIN EAST INTO WESTERN PERSHING AND CHURCHILL COUNTIES INCLUDING THE SIERRA FRONT...

The National Weather Service in Reno has issued a Red Flag Warning for gusty winds and low humidity, which is in effect until 6 PM PDT this evening.

* AFFECTED AREA...Fire Zone 272 Greater Lake Tahoe Area, Fire Zone 450 Western Nevada Sierra Front and Fire Zone 453 West Central Nevada Basin and Range.

* Winds...Southwest winds increasing to 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 40 mph by late morning. Local gusts of 45 to 50 mph this afternoon in wind prone areas.

* Humidity...10 to 20% this morning. Rising above 30% around sunset. * Duration...3 to 6 hours, locally up to 9 hours in wind prone locations.

* Impacts...The combination of gusty winds and low humidity can cause fire to rapidly grow in size and intensity.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Avoid outdoor activities that can cause a spark near dry vegetation, such as yard work, target shooting, or campfires. Follow local fire restrictions.

Check weather.gov/reno for updates and livingwithfire.info for preparedness tips.