Texas weather turns volatile fast this February morning, with dry winds already stirring dust and grass.
Fire danger builds quickly across the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles today, triggering a Red Flag Warning that puts outdoor activity under scrutiny.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, critical fire weather conditions will develop late this morning and intensify through the afternoon. Southwest winds increase steadily, gusting up to 40 mph, while humidity drops as low as 7 percent. Temperatures surge into the mid-70s, an unusual February warmth that dries fuels even faster.
Any spark could spread rapidly. Officials strongly discourage outdoor burning, welding, or activities that produce flames or sparks. Grasslands and open fields remain especially vulnerable under these conditions.
For drivers, expect crosswinds on east-west roadways, including I-40, by midday. High-profile vehicles may feel sudden gusts, especially west of Amarillo where open terrain amplifies wind speed. Dust briefly reducing visibility remains possible in exposed areas.
By Tuesday, winds ease and temperatures cool slightly, with highs falling back into the upper 50s. A weak system may bring light rain chances midweek, offering limited relief but no widespread soaking. Wednesday turns warmer again, with sunshine and highs climbing into the mid-60s.
Late week trends favor a continued warming pattern, with temperatures pushing into the 70s by Thursday and Friday. While moisture remains limited, calmer winds should reduce fire danger compared to today.
Looking ahead into the 6–10 day outlook, signs point toward above-normal temperatures expanding across much of the central U.S. A broader February thaw may develop, even as snow and ice linger farther north. For now, today’s fire weather remains the immediate concern.
Five-Day Snapshot for Amarillo, TX
- Today: Sunny, windy, high near 76°F – Red Flag Warning
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 58°F
- Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 66°F
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 74°F
- Friday: Mostly cloudy, scattered showers possible, high near 58°F
