Red Flag Warning in Effect Through Tuesday Afternoon

The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for Los Angeles and Ventura counties until 4 p.m. Tuesday. Wind gusts are expected to hit 35 to 45 miles per hour and may reach 50 mph in the mountains, according to forecasters.

In the Santa Monica Mountains, the strongest gusts were expected Monday night and early Tuesday, according to the NWS. The warning also noted that low humidity would be expected in the mountains and throughout L.A. County.

The NWS says fires can spread very quickly due to a combination of dry brush and weather conditions during red flag days. Los Angeles County Fire Chief, Daryl L. Osby, has requested additional resources because of the warning.

To report damage related to the winds, call the county's disaster hotline at 1-800-980-4990 or by dialing 2-1-1. Damage can also be reported online here.

The L.A. County Fire Department has a few precautions for residents during these conditions:

• Report smoke to fire officials by calling 911 and report your specific location.
• When using machinery that may involve sparks or flames, be extremely cautious in brush areas.
• Have a "Wildfire Action Plan" in place if you live in a brush area.
• Report any suspicious activity or persons.