The Eureka office of the National Weather Service has issued a Fire Weather Watch for eastern areas of Humboldt County starting late Wednesday into Friday due to forecasts of high winds and low humidity. 

Upper slopes and ridges above 2,000 feet are expected to be affected, with east and northeast winds in the 15 to 25 mph range and gusts to 35 mph. Winds are expected to be at their peak around sunrise Thursday and Friday, according to the NWS.

A Fire Weather Watch means conditions are conducive for the rapid spread of new fires or ongoing fires. The Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services is urging residents of areas under the watch to be prepared to fire activity and to visit https://www.readyforwildfire.org/prepare-for-wildfire.

Meanwhile, the Interagency Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program forecasts the current respite from smoky conditions will end in the coming days with increased fire activity expected.