Red Flag fire warnings are expected to remain for the Malibu area along the Southern California coast into Wednesday afternoon after the Franklin Fire forced evacuation orders or warnings for 18,000 residents,

While longtime San Diego residents are likely familiar with the term, some may be new to the advisory. So, what exactly does a Red Flag Warning mean and why is it important?

Officials say damaging winds with gusts possibly up to 80 mph could lead to potential fire conditions in parts of Los Angeles and Southern California.