Amarillo, TX – A Red Flag Warning is in effect for the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. CDT on Thursday due to strong winds and low relative humidity, increasing the risk of wildfires.
According to the National Weather Service in Amarillo, affected areas include Cimarron County in Oklahoma, as well as Dallam, Hartley, Oldham, and Deaf Smith counties in Texas. Additional counties under the warning include Texas, Sherman, and Moore. Wind speeds are expected to range from 15 to 25 mph, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph. Relative humidity levels could drop as low as 8 to 9 percent, further exacerbating fire conditions.
Officials urge residents to exercise caution and avoid activities that could generate sparks or open flames. Dry vegetation and strong winds could cause fires to ignite and spread rapidly. The Red Flag Threat Index is estimated to be between 3 and 6, indicating a heightened fire danger.
Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather alerts and follow local emergency guidelines. The National Weather Service warns that conditions will remain critical until at least 8 p.m. Thursday. For more details, visit www.weather.gov/ama.
