A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for the Northern San Joaquin Valley including San Joaquin and Stanislaus counties below 1000 feet. The warning will be in effect from 11 a.m. Thursday, May 19 through 8 p.m. Friday, May 20.

Forecasters are calling for gusty winds and low humidity, creating ‘fire weather’ conditions throughout the region.

Northerly winds 15 to 30 mph are predicted, with gusts 35 to 45 mph, locally higher.

Minimum humidities of 5 to 12 percent are anticipated during the afternoons with overnight recoveries to 20 to 35 percent.

Also, fire threat is anticipated to be high on the west side of the Sacramento Valley mainly along and west of Interstate 5 and 505 and into the Coastal Range Foothills below 2500 feet. Strongest winds will be Thursday night through Friday morning.

Any fires that develop may spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

Gusty winds along with drying fuels will lead to critical fire weather conditions. Lighter winds are expected on Saturday, but humidity values will remain in the single digits and teens.

You can interact with the National Weather Service via social media; www.facebook.com/nws.sacramento; www.twitter.com/nwssacramento

In addition, a wind advisory will be in effect from 11 p.m. Thursday to 5 p.m. Friday with predicted north winds 15 to 30 mph with gusts 35 to 45 mph throughout the Sacramento Valley, Delta and Northern San Joaquin Valley. Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Gusty winds could impact high profile vehicles. Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.