As winds whipped up in the wildfire-ravaged Santa Cruz Mountains during the Red Flag Warning on Monday, Cal Fire crews were standing by, not taking any chances.
The agency has brought in two quick-strike crews – firefighters, fire engines and other equipment – to tackle any fires that break out in Santa Cruz Mountains and along the San Mateo County coast. “We’re pretty concerned about this wind event,” Cal Fire Chief Ian Larkin told KPIX 5.
Larkin said late September and October are especially dangerous times during the fire season. Grass and brush are extremely dry and fires can started easily and spread quickly.
“People have just been on edge, with all of the fires occurring throughout the state. I think some people are probably feeling battle fatigue, especially those who survived and maybe have the potential for their home to be impacted again,” Larkin said.