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?

Relief from the wind: We're looking at a cooling trend for the Southland as dry, cold air sticks around with light winds. Could we see a sprinkle? Our skies will be a little cloudier, and there's a slight chance of rain tonight and into Thursday in Ventura County, according to the National Weather Service.