Strong thunderstorms and gusty outflow winds of up to 50mph in the forecast have prompted forecasters at the National Weather Service office in Reno to issue a Red Flag Warning for our area.
The Red Flag Warning will be in effect from 8:00p.m. Sunday until 11:00a.m. Monday.
The main period of concern for thunderstorm potential is Sunday evening through Monday morning, with faster moving storms producing lightning and limited rainfall.
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.
Storms may be a hybrid of wet and dry, but the faster storm motions will likely allow for lightning strikes outside of the main thunderstorm core. With resources already stretched thin, any new fire starts will be an issue.
40 to 50mph wind gusts are possible.
Avoid outdoor activities that can cause a spark near dry vegetation, such as yard work, target shooting, or campfires. Follow local fire restrictions.