UPDATED: As a result of the red flag warnings issued by the National Weather Service and continued extreme fire danger, the City of Concord has closed its open space areas with developed walking trails, including Lime Ridge Open Space and portions of Newhall Park. Lime Ridge parking lots at Treat Boulevard and Montecito Drive will also be closed.
The closures will remain in effect through Monday, Sept. 28.
City staff has consulted with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District and determined that closing the open space is in the best interest of public safety and preservation of the natural environment.
While red flag weather conditions do not increase the likelihood of a fire starting, they do dramatically affect its ability to spread rapidly.