Many regions across Texas are currently under a Red Flag Warning due to high winds and very low humidity, significantly elevating wildfire risks. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued this warning from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM CST today, encompassing all of South-Central Texas.
Affected Counties:
- Burnet County
- Llano County
- Williamson County
- Travis County
- Blanco County
- Gillespie County
- Kendall County
- Hays County
- Bastrop County
- Lee County
- Kerr County
- Bandera County
- Real County
- Edwards County
- Val Verde County
- Kinney County
- Uvalde County
- Medina County
- Bexar County
- Comal County
- Guadalupe County
- Caldwell County
- Fayette County
- Maverick County
- Zavala County
- Frio County
- Atascosa County
- Wilson County
- Karnes County
- Gonzales County
- De Witt County
- Lavaca County
- Dimmit County
These counties are experiencing sustained west winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts reaching 45 to 55 mph. Relative humidity levels are critically low, ranging from 5% to 15%. These conditions create an environment where any fires that develop can rapidly increase in size and intensity, making them difficult to control.
Local Responses:
In response to these hazardous conditions, several counties have implemented burn bans to mitigate potential fire hazards. For instance, Travis County has declared a local disaster and issued a burn ban effective for all areas within the county, including city limits. Residents are urged to avoid any activities that could inadvertently ignite fires, such as outdoor grilling or using machinery that produces sparks.
Safety Recommendations:
Residents across the affected counties are advised to:
- Avoid outdoor activities that could generate sparks or flames.
- Secure outdoor objects that could be displaced by strong winds.
- Exercise caution when traveling, especially in high-profile vehicles, due to strong wind gusts.
- Stay informed by monitoring updates from local authorities and the National Weather Service.
The NWS emphasizes that the combination of strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
For the latest updates and detailed information, consult the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies.
