SPFD Advises Residents to Prepare for Red Flag Warning

Published on October 14, 2026

October 14, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: South Pasadena Fire Department
Phone: (626) 403-7300
Email: fdinfo@southpasadenaca.gov

Subject: South Pasadena Fire Department Advises Residents to Prepare for Red Flag Warning

South Pasadena, Calif. –  The South Pasadena Fire Department is urging residents to take additional precautions as the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for much of Los Angeles County, including the San Gabriel Valley, beginning Thursday, October 15, at 6:00 a.m. and continuing through Friday, October 16, at 10:00 p.m.

Strong Santa Ana winds, elevated temperatures, and extremely low humidity are expected to create critical fire weather conditions throughout the region. These conditions increase the potential for wildfires to ignite, spread rapidly, and threaten homes and neighborhoods with little warning.

Although all South Pasadena residents should remain vigilant, the Fire Department is placing particular emphasis on preparedness in the Monterey Hills neighborhood, where steep terrain, surrounding vegetation, narrow roadways, and limited access routes can complicate emergency response and evacuation efforts.

Fire Prevention Starts with Everyone

During Red Flag conditions, even a small spark can lead to a rapidly spreading wildfire. Residents are strongly encouraged to:

  • Avoid outdoor activities that could produce sparks or open flames, including outdoor burning, welding, grinding, and equipment use near dry vegetation.
  • Postpone landscaping activities involving lawnmowers, chainsaws, and other power equipment that could ignite vegetation.
  • Properly extinguish and dispose of smoking materials.
  • Remove dry leaves, debris, and other combustible materials from areas immediately surrounding homes.
  • Secure outdoor furniture and loose objects that could become hazardous in strong winds.
  • Report smoke or signs of fire immediately by calling 911.

Keep Roads Clear for Emergency Vehicles and Evacuations

The Fire Department is reminding residents, particularly those living in Monterey Hills, that maintaining clear roadways is essential during a wildfire emergency.

Narrow streets, hillside terrain, and limited access points can create significant challenges when firefighters are attempting to enter a neighborhood while residents are evacuating.

Residents are asked to:

  • Keep streets, intersections, driveways, and fire access roads clear of parked vehicles and other obstructions.
  • Strictly observe posted parking restrictions, red curbs, and designated fire lanes.
  • Avoid parking in a manner that narrows roadways or restricts the movement of fire engines and other emergency vehicles.
  • Keep vehicles out of designated evacuation routes and avoid blocking neighborhood entrances or exits.
  • Ensure vegetation does not obstruct roadways, access gates, or emergency vehicle access.

A vehicle parked in the wrong location can delay emergency responders and interfere with the safe evacuation of an entire neighborhood. Maintaining unobstructed access is a shared responsibility and is particularly important in Monterey Hills.

Know Your Evacuation Routes and Be Prepared to Leave Early

Residents should take time before an emergency to identify their evacuation routes, establish a family communication plan, and prepare essential belongings.

The Fire Department recommends that residents:

  • Identify at least two possible evacuation routes from their neighborhood when available.
  • Keep vehicles fueled or charged and positioned for a prompt departure.
  • Prepare an emergency go-bag containing medications, important documents, clothing, and essential supplies.
  • Make arrangements for pets and household members who may need assistance evacuating.
  • Register for emergency notifications and monitor official sources for changing conditions.
  • Leave early if threatened by wildfire, especially if household members require additional time or assistance.

Residents should not assume that their normal route will remain available during an emergency. Fire conditions, road closures, and emergency operations may require alternate routes.

If an Evacuation Warning is issued for your neighborhood, do not wait until conditions deteriorate to leave. Residents who feel threatened should evacuate immediately, even if an official evacuation order has not yet been issued. Always follow directions from emergency personnel.

Stay Informed and Connected

South Pasadena residents are encouraged to sign up for the City's emergency notification system by texting READYSP to 77295.

Residents should also monitor official City communications, National Weather Service forecasts, and trusted emergency information resources throughout the Red Flag Warning.

A Red Flag Warning does not mean a wildfire is currently occurring. It means that weather conditions are favorable for dangerous fire behavior should a fire ignite.

The South Pasadena Fire Department reminds residents that wildfire preparedness is a year-round responsibility. Taking simple precautions now can help protect families, neighborhoods, and the firefighters who respond when emergencies occur.

For more information about the City of South Pasadena, visit www.southpasadenaca.gov. Follow us on social media to keep up with the latest news: YouTube, Facebook, X, and Instagram at @southpasadenaca.

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