As of Tuesday, Sept. 5, more than 10,000 firefighters were battling 23 large wildfires in California.

The high pressure system that had parked over the state last week will gradually lose its influence this week, officials said, as the remains of Tropical Storm Lidia moves north just off shore.

“Moisture will begin to increase and conditions will become more unstable. This will lead to a few days of possible isolated thunderstorm development or even some light showers at times this week,” said Lynnette Round, CAL FIRE Information/Education Officer. “Temperatures will be cooling to near normal for the latter half of the week.”

Southeast to south flow aloft will bring isolated to scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms to the mountains and deserts of the southern region through this weekend. Isolated showers will occur over the coastal and valley areas due to moisture from the remains of Tropical Storm Lidia.

Round also issued a reminder that motorists are responsible for many of the wildfires sparked along the roadways. Nearly all these fire starts could be prevented by following safety rules that include practicing safe towing, no dragging parts, checking tire pressure, and properly maintaining brakes. Don’t drive your vehicle onto dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can start fires that you won’t even see. Visit ReadyForWildfire.org to learn more about being prepared for wildfires. Get ready for wildfire with the new CAL FIRE app available on Android and IPhone.

Fires of note in this region include the Peak Fire, the South Park Fire in Yosemite National Park and the Empire Fire in Yosemite National Park, all in Mariposa County; the Pier Fire in Tulare County; and the Railroad Fire and the Mission/Vegetation Fire, both in Madera County.

For current fire information, visit www.fire.ca.gov.