Amarillo, TX – The National Weather Service in Amarillo has issued a Red Flag Warning for the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles, in effect from 11 AM to 9 PM CST Monday due to strong winds and low relative humidity that could lead to rapid wildfire spread.
According to the National Weather Service, areas affected include Texas and Beaver counties in Oklahoma, as well as Hansford, Ochiltree, Lipscomb, Hutchinson, Roberts, Hemphill, Carson, Gray, Wheeler, Armstrong, Donley, and Collingsworth counties in Texas. Winds are expected to reach 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 50 mph, and humidity levels could drop as low as 9 percent.
In the western Panhandle, including Cimarron, Dallam, Sherman, Hartley, Moore, Oldham, Potter, Deaf Smith, Randall, and Palo Duro Canyon, the threat is even greater, with wind gusts potentially reaching 60 mph and humidity as low as 7 percent.
Officials urge residents to avoid activities that could ignite fires, such as burning debris or using equipment that produces sparks. With the Red Flag Threat Index reaching 6 to 8 in some areas, the risk for fast-moving wildfires is high.
Residents should stay alert, follow local advisories, and report any signs of wildfire to authorities immediately. For more information, visit the National Weather Service website or monitor local emergency updates.
