Lubbock, Texas – Very warm, breezy, and dry conditions are expected to significantly increase wildfire danger across the South Plains Monday, with heightened concern near I-27 and surrounding roadways.
According to the National Weather Service in Lubbock, southwest winds and low humidity will combine with unseasonably warm temperatures to create critical fire weather conditions across portions of the far southwest Texas Panhandle. A Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon until 7 p.m. Monday for areas most vulnerable to rapid fire spread.
High temperatures are forecast to reach the mid to upper 70s on the Caprock, including Lubbock at 76 degrees, with lower 80s possible farther east and southeast, including Childress and Aspermont. Winds are expected to range from 5 to 25 mph, with higher gusts possible during the afternoon hours.
Elevated to critical fire danger is expected along major travel corridors including Interstate 27, U.S. Highway 84, and U.S. Highway 62/82, where roadside ignitions can spread quickly in dry grasses. Officials urge motorists to avoid activities that could spark fires, including dragging trailer chains or parking vehicles on dry vegetation.
The National Weather Service stressed that outdoor burning is strongly discouraged during Red Flag conditions. Even small sparks can lead to fast-moving grassfires capable of threatening property, livestock, and road visibility.
While skies will remain mostly sunny to partly cloudy, the combination of warmth, wind, and dryness poses the primary hazard rather than storms or precipitation. Conditions are expected to improve after sunset as winds decrease and humidity recovers.
Commuters, agricultural workers, and outdoor crews should use extra caution Monday afternoon, particularly those traveling or working near open fields and highways.
