Heat Wave Hits Bay Area: Fire Risks Rise

San Francisco is set to see a sudden heat surge, with Thursday’s temperature climbing to 82 degrees—over two dozen degrees above the usual average. Coastal towns will stay mild, but valleys may hit 90s and higher places could reach near triple digits. The weather pattern that separates the coast from inland will stay unchanged, keeping temperatures uneven across the region. A red flag warning covers mountain zones north of the Bay and parts of the East Bay Hills from 11 p. m. Wednesday to 9 a. m. Thursday. This alert warns of dry fuels and windy conditions that could start fires quickly and let them spread fast. Power companies may cut electricity in some areas to prevent sparks that could ignite flames.Wind gusts are expected up to 45 miles per hour, with spots hitting over 60 mph. Such strong winds can push flames and carry embers long distances, increasing danger for communities and wildlife. Fire officials urge residents to stay cautious. In East Bay parks, open fires, barbecues, welding, and off‑road driving are banned. The main threat comes from human actions—like a lawn mower hitting a rock or a spark from a vehicle. Small mistakes can ignite large blazes when the air is dry and hot. By Sunday, cooler breezes should arrive, lowering temperatures to around 71 degrees in San Francisco. Until then, people are asked to be vigilant and follow fire safety rules.