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,

The Franklin Fire has burned 3,983 acres in Malibu, prompting thousands to evacuate and destroying seven structures.

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?