Fire Danger in Eastern Sierra

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) --Gusty winds and low humidity prompted the National Weather Service to issue a red flag warning for a wide section of the eastern Sierra Saturday.

A California Department of Forestry and Fire spokesman said conditions remain dry across an area of about 300 miles stretching from Modoc County to Mono County.

Spokesman Daniel Berlant said the dry conditions, along with high winds and low humidity Saturday increased the fire danger.

Forecasters said wind gusts could reach as high as 40 miles per hour in some areas.

Firefighters were on high alert and stations were fully staffed in red flag areas.

Residents in those areas were encouraged to be cautious and avoid mowing dead grass or clearing brush.

The fire warning was expected to expire at 11 p.m. Saturday.