Dry air, gusty winds, and chilly overnight temperatures are prompting a New Year’s Eve fire safety alert across Southeast Texas, according to the National Weather Service Houston/Galveston.
NWS officials report that very dry conditions following Sunday’s cold front will persist through New Year’s Eve, creating an elevated risk for quick fire starts, especially where fireworks are used near dry vegetation. Forecast data shows low relative humidity values combined with wind gusts ranging from 20 to 30 mph, particularly across the Houston metro, Brazoria County, Galveston County, and inland areas along I-10, I-45, and Highway 59.
Temperatures will remain seasonable but chilly. New Year’s Eve afternoon highs are expected to reach the mid to upper 60s, including around 64–66 degrees in Houston, Sugar Land, Conroe, and Bay City, under sunny skies and light southwest winds. After sunset, temperatures will fall quickly.
According to the National Weather Service, midnight temperatures will drop into the mid to upper 40s, with overnight lows ranging from the upper 30s to low 40s by early New Year’s Day. Locations north of Houston, including College Station, Huntsville, and Livingston, may dip into the upper 30s, while coastal areas such as Galveston remain closer to 50 degrees.
Officials urge residents planning fireworks displays to avoid igniting fireworks in dry grass or wooded areas, follow all local ordinances, and keep water or a hose nearby. Fireworks should never be aimed toward people, structures, or vegetation, and faulty fireworks should not be relit.
While New Year’s Day will remain dry with gradual warming continuing into the 60s, fire danger may linger until humidity levels recover later in the week.
For families, service workers, and travelers celebrating the holiday, the combination of dry air, wind, and cooler nighttime temperatures increases safety concerns despite otherwise pleasant weather.
