Authorities cautioned that dry conditions and powerful winds could fuel the rapid spread of wildfire as a massive blaze burned nearly 3,500 acres in Mendocino County.
The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning from 11 a.m. Saturday through 11 a.m. Monday, citing strong winds and low humidity that can lead to easier fire starts and rapid fire growth.
The warning came as the Lucas Fire burned near the Lake County-Mendocino County line in Potter Valley. The fire prompted evacuation orders in several areas, according to Cal Fire.
The Lucas Fire started Thursday at roughly 10 acres before rapidly expanding, in part because of the blaze’s remote location.
“Firefighters faced high temperatures and strong winds on the fire line today, working in challenging conditions to protect communities and slow the fire’s spread.”
