Concord closes open spaces this weekend due to fire danger

Concord closes open spaces this weekend due to fire danger
Lime Ridge Open Space will close this weekend due to extreme fire danger. (Pete Cruz photo)

UPDATE, May 9, 2021, The Red Flag Warning and Open Space Closures have been extended to Tuesday, May 11, 6 p.m.

CONCORD, CA (May 7, 2021) — The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning beginning Friday, May 7 at 11 p.m. and lasting through Monday, May 10 at 6 a.m. Because of this, Concord will close its open space areas.

Red Flag Warnings happen when weather conditions include strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures. All of these factors can contribute to extreme fire danger.

The City of Concord will close its open space areas with developed walking trails. Closed areas include Lime Ridge Open Space and portions of Newhall Park. Lime Ridge parking lots at Treat Boulevard and Montecito Drive will also close.

Concord closes open spaces this weekend due to fire danger
Firefighters in Contra Costa County have already been busy putting out several fires in the county this week. CON FIRE crews battled heavy fires fueled by strong winds and thick vegetation near the Antioch Marina on Tuesday. (Photo courtesy CCCFPD Instagram)

After consulting with Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, the City determined that closing the open space is in the best interest of public safety and preservation of the natural environment.

Residents and visitors are asked to heed these warnings and refrain from using the open space trails during the closures.

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