Red Flag Warning Extended For Mill Valley

MARIN COUNTY, CA — Gusty offshore winds and low humidity prompted the National Weather Service to extend a red flag warning for much of the San Francisco Bay Area, including the entire North Bay.

The red flag warning will remain in effect until 5 p.m. Monday, according to the NWS. A wind advisory is also in effect until 11 a.m. Monday for the Bay Area, including the North Bay.

"Any new starts aligned with wind will likely show rapid growth as fuels remain at or near all-time record dry levels for early December," forecasters said. "Strong winds could cause power outages as well as downed trees and limbs."

North winds of 15 to 25 mph with frequent gusts up to 45 mph are expected above 1,000 feet. Gusts in excess of 60 mph are predicted for wind-favored locations around Mount Saint Helena, Mount Diablo and Mount Tamalpais, according to the NWS.

Marin officials advised residents to "exercise extreme caution" during the red flag warning because a "simple spark could cause a major wildfire," including the use of equipment and machinery as well as outdoor smoking.

All National Park Service beaches in Marin will remain open, but the following land-use restrictions will be in effect for the Marin Municipal Water District, Mount Tamalpais State Park and Marin County Open Space District preserves during the red flag conditions, according to the county:

• Marin Municipal Water District closures at Sky Oaks, Natalie Coffin Green Park in Ross and Leo Cronin Parking Lot in Lagunitas
• Mount Vision Road in Inverness
• All open burning and burn permits are suspended on public lands.
• Closures of Mount Tamalpais State Park; roads north of Panoramic Highway are closed to motor vehicle traffic on Pantoll Road and Ridgecrest Boulevard. All park use permits north of Panoramic Highway are suspended, including filming.