Amarillo, Texas – Critical fire weather conditions across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles Sunday could allow fires to spread rapidly through the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 9 p.m. CDT Sunday for western and central areas of both panhandles, including Cimarron County in Oklahoma and multiple counties in the Texas Panhandle.
Forecasters say southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph combined with relative humidity dropping as low as 7 percent will create dangerous fire conditions across the region. Afternoon temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 70s, further drying vegetation and increasing fire potential.
Meteorologists warn that any fires that ignite could spread quickly due to the combination of strong winds, warm temperatures, and extremely dry air. Officials advise residents to avoid outdoor burning and any activity that could produce sparks or open flames.
The warning covers several Texas counties including Dallam, Sherman, Hansford, Hartley, Moore, Hutchinson, Oldham, Potter, Carson, Deaf Smith, and Randall, along with Cimarron County in the Oklahoma Panhandle.
Fire weather forecasters rate the conditions as “critical,” with fuels in the 50th to 69th percentile and an overall fire environment score of 5 out of 10, indicating elevated potential for wildfire ignition and spread.
Local emergency officials often increase monitoring during Red Flag events as wind-driven fires can grow rapidly in open grassland areas common across the High Plains.
The warning is expected to expire Sunday evening at 9 p.m. CDT, when winds are forecast to weaken and humidity levels begin to recover.
Dry, windy days like this can be especially relevant for commuters, ranch workers, and students traveling across open rural areas where wildfire smoke can quickly affect visibility.
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