Austin, TX – Triple-digit heat levels near 96 degrees combined with bone-dry air could spark fast-moving wildfires across western South Central Texas beginning late Thursday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Austin/San Antonio, a Red Flag Warning takes effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST Thursday for counties including Llano, Burnet, Kerr, Bandera, Gillespie, Kendall, Blanco, Val Verde, Edwards, Real, Kinney, Uvalde, Medina, Maverick, Zavala, Frio and Dimmit. North winds of 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph will develop behind a cold front, while relative humidity drops as low as 13 percent.
The driest and hottest conditions will focus across the Hill Country and Rio Grande Plains, including communities such as Kerrville, Fredericksburg, Uvalde and Del Rio. Grass and brush fuels remain highly receptive to ignition, and any spark from welding, vehicles, power equipment or roadside dragging chains could lead to rapid fire spread.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and postpone activities that could create sparks during peak heating hours. Secure trailer chains, properly discard cigarettes and stay alert for smoke.
Critical fire weather conditions ease after 7 p.m., but elevated fire danger could persist if dry air lingers into Friday.
