PUBLIC NOTICE: RED FLAG WARNING IN EFFECT AND PROHIBITION OF SPARK-PRODUCING EQUIPMENT

The National Weather Service has reissued a Red Flag Warning for Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, effective immediately through 6:00 PM PST, Wednesday, January 15. This warning is due to gusty Santa Ana winds, extremely low humidity, and very dry vegetation, which create critical fire weather conditions that significantly increase the risk of fire ignition, rapid spread, and extreme behavior.

Prohibition of Spark-Producing Equipment

In response to these conditions, the use of any spark-producing equipment is strictly prohibited in the County of Los Angeles, including the City of Hidden Hills. Prohibited equipment includes, but is not limited to:

• Chainsaws
• Grinders
• Welding devices
• Trimmers
• Lawn mowers
• Chippers
• Any other tools or machinery capable of emitting sparks

This prohibition will remain in effect until fire weather conditions improve, as determined by the County Health Officer and emergency authorities. Residents are urged to comply immediately to prevent potential disasters and ensure community safety.

Key Hazard Overview

• Winds: Gusts of 50-75 mph are expected in wind-prone areas, such as the San Gabriel Mountains, Santa Susana Mountains, and western Santa Monica Mountains. The strongest winds are forecasted this evening through Sunday morning and again late Monday into Tuesday.
• Humidity: Dangerously low levels of 10-20% during the day, with minimal recovery at night.
• Fire Spread Risk: Conditions favor rapid fire spread, erratic behavior, and long-range spotting if ignition occurs, threatening life and property.

Important Updates

• Parkway Trees & Debris: Parkway tree removal remains delayed due to fire risks associated with using chippers, a spark-producing piece of equipment. The Association’s landscape vendor has voluntarily decided not to use chippers under these conditions. They assure the community that the foliage is not currently a fire hazard, as it takes months to dry out fully. Once it is deemed safe, the vendor will resume debris removal. For questions, contact City Hall.
• Blower Ban: All blowers, including electric and battery-operated models, remain banned until further notice by the County Health Department.
• Kenneth Fire Update: The Kenneth Fire is currently at 1,052 acres with 80% containment. Firefighters continue patrols and mopping up remaining hotspots to ensure the fire remains within its perimeter.

Palisades Fire Community Meeting

A county meeting will be held tonight in Calvary Westlake at 5495 Via Rocas, Westlake Village at 6:30 p.m. to discuss fire conditions and community safety. Residents may attend in person or watch the meeting online at www.YOUTUBE.COM/@CALFIREIMT2390.

Community Safety Measures

The city has hired extra patrol units to monitor the community in coordination with the Sheriff’s Department and C6 patrol. Additional law enforcement has also been deployed in and around the area at the city’s request.

Your Cooperation is Vital

We urge all residents to remain vigilant and to avoid using spark-producing equipment. If you see anyone using such equipment (e.g., chippers, trimmers, lawn mowers), kindly remind them to stop and use manual tools instead. For questions or concerns, please contact City Hall at (818) 888-9281.

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation in keeping our community safe during this critical time. Together, we can help protect lives and property.