Crime & Safety
Santa Cruz County Under Heat Advisory; Cal Fire Bolsters Ranks
As the National Weather Service warns of heat and weather conducive to wildfire spread, Cal Fire ramps up staffing to address any fires.
SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — The Cal Fire chapter serving Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties has increased staffing levels as weather officials warn that conditions are ripe for the start and spread of wildfire.
Santa Cruz County was also under a heat advisory — like much of the Bay Area — beginning 11 a.m. Thursday.
The Santa Cruz Mountains were covered by a red flag warning, indicating windy and dry conditions. More than 5,000 residents in the area lost power in a public safety power shutoff meant to diminish the chances of wildfire sparked by electrical equipment.
Find out what's happening in Santa Cruzfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Cal Fire urged people to be cautious as gusty winds whip the region and vegetation remains exceptionally dry.
The National Weather Service said Thursday morning that "impressively strong winds" were recorded at higher elevations, including those in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Find out what's happening in Santa Cruzfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The red flag warning is set to expire at 11 a.m. Friday, while the heat advisory will remain in place until 9p.m. Friday.
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