Lubbock, Texas – Fires could ignite and spread rapidly across the South Plains within hours today as extreme fire weather conditions take hold.
According to the National Weather Service in Lubbock, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from noon until 8 p.m. Saturday for the South Plains, Rolling Plains, and the far southern Texas Panhandle. Southwest winds will range from 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 25 mph, while relative humidity drops as low as 5%.
These conditions create a critical fire environment, where even small sparks can quickly turn into fast-moving grassfires. Areas including Lubbock, Plainview, Levelland, Brownfield, and Childress are all under heightened risk, especially along open roadways like U.S. 84 and U.S. 62 where dry fuels are abundant.
Officials strongly urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, secure loose chains on trailers, and delay any activity that could produce sparks. Fire crews may face difficulty containing any new starts due to the combination of wind and extremely dry air.
The highest risk is expected during the mid-afternoon through early evening hours before conditions begin to ease after sunset. Additional warnings are possible if dry and windy patterns continue into Sunday.
