Brownsville, Texas – A stray spark could ignite fast-moving brush fires by midmorning Sunday as dry air and gusty northeast winds combine to create critical fire conditions across the Rio Grande Valley through 6 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Brownsville, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday for Jim Hogg, Starr, Brooks and Hidalgo counties, along with inland portions of Cameron, Willacy and Kenedy counties. Northeast winds will range from 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. Relative humidity could drop as low as 10 percent in some locations, while afternoon temperatures climb to around 71 degrees.
Communities including McAllen, Edinburg, Rio Grande City and Falfurrias face heightened wildfire danger, especially in open ranchland and brush country along U.S. 281, State Highway 83 and rural farm roads. Fires that ignite may spread quickly under gusty winds and dry fuels.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains and properly extinguish cigarettes. Fire crews will remain on alert through early evening, and additional advisories could follow if dry, breezy weather continues into the week.
