The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning for the Santa Clarita Valley from 3 a.m. Thursday through 6 p.m. Friday due to fire danger from expected Santa Ana wind conditions and single-digit humidity.

A moderate to strong Santa Ana wind event will bring widespread critical fire weather conditions over most of the area, where fuel condition is dry.

Wind gusts between 45 and 70 mph are expected during the Thursday mid-morning to mid-afternoon peak.

Minimum humidities in the 3 to 10 percent range will be common, with very poor overnight recovery.

If fire ignition occurs, conditions may be favorable for extreme fire behavior which would threaten life and property.

This warning, which also covers the San Fernando Valley and Ventura County, and may need to be extended into Saturday for the mountains.

A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or will soon. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. Use extreme caution with potential fire ignition sources.

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Meanwhile, the city of Santa Clarita advised about safety procedures if residents encounter traffic signals that are either offline or operating intermittently.

· Traffic Signal Blackout – If all traffic signal lights at an intersection are not working due to an electrical power failure, the intersection must be treated the same way as a four-way stop sign. Drivers must stop at the intersection and then proceed only when it is safe to do so while yielding to bicycles and pedestrians.

· Flashing Red Lights – A flashing red traffic signal light means “Stop.” After stopping, drivers may proceed when it is safe, observing standard right-of-way rules.

Drivers are also reminded to anticipate pedestrians and bicyclists and be cautious of other motorists who may fail to stop before entering the intersection.

Residents are also encouraged to take precautions and prepare for a power outage that may stretch beyond a few hours.

Charge cell phones, spare batteries, laptops and other devices ahead of time.

A portable, battery-powered radio can also allow residents to receive updated information from news agencies in the event other devices lose power.

You should also have flashlights accessible, learn how to manually open automatic garage doors or gates and prepare to meet special needs of any infant, elderly or disabled members of your household.