The National Weather Service warns that strong winds and low humidity in the Sacramento Valley and the Delta could rapidly spread wildfires this weekend.

SACRAMENTO, Calif — The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for the Sacramento Valley and Delta region through the weekend, warning of conditions that could spark and rapidly spread wildfires.

The timing for the warning stretches from 5 a.m. Saturday to 8 p.m. Monday.

Forecasters expect north winds of 20–30 mph, with gusts reaching 35–45 mph. In some areas of the Delta and the far western Sacramento Valley, gusts could climb to 50 mph. Relative humidity is forecasted to be low during the day, ranging from 7% to 15%, and higher overnight, between 30% and 55%.

The warning covers areas including Redding, Chico, Sacramento, Fairfield, Stockton, and Modesto.

Officials say the combination of strong winds and dry air makes fire starts more likely and allows flames to spread quickly. Residents are urged to exercise fire safety precautions, take steps to prevent fires and have an emergency plan in case a fire starts nearby.

Northern California fire danger rises with weekend winds