The National Weather Service in Reno has issued a Fire Weather Watch for thunderstorms and strong outflow winds, which is in effect from Tuesday afternoon through Tuesday evening.
Affected areas will include Lassen, eastern Plumas and eastern Sierra Counties along with the greater Lake Tahoe and Truckee Area.
According to NWS forecasters, thunderstorms are expected to develop during the late afternoon and evening hours on Tuesday. Despite some rainfall with the thunderstorms lightning ignitions are possible, especially with abnormally dry vegetation.
Outflow winds around these storm cells may exceed 50mph.
Lightning can create new fire starts and may combine with strong outflow winds to cause a fire to rapidly grow in size and intensity before first responders can contain them.
Avoid outdoor activities that can cause a spark near dry vegetation, such as yard work, target shooting or campfires. Follow local fire restrictions.
