Lubbock, TX – Near-record heat combined with critical fire weather conditions is prompting a Red Flag Warning across portions of West Texas today, according to the National Weather Service in Lubbock.
The Red Flag Warning is in effect from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday for northwestern portions of the Caprock, including parts of the Texas Panhandle and northern South Plains. Forecasters say fire danger will be highest in these areas due to very low humidity, dry fuels, and gusty winds.
According to the National Weather Service, southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, are expected during the afternoon. Relative humidity levels could drop as low as 10 percent, creating an environment where fires can ignite easily and spread rapidly.
At the same time, near-record to record-breaking temperatures are forecast. In Lubbock, the high temperature Friday is expected to reach 76 degrees, matching the record set in 1921. On Saturday, temperatures could climb to 82 degrees, potentially breaking the existing record of 80 degrees, also set in 1921.
In Childress, highs are forecast near 71 degrees Friday and 77 degrees Saturday, approaching or exceeding long-standing December records.
The National Weather Service is urging residents to avoid all outdoor burning, properly secure items that could create sparks, and use extreme caution with vehicles and equipment. Trailer chains dragging on roadways, discarded cigarettes, or machinery operating in dry grass could quickly start a fire.
Even outside the Red Flag Warning area, elevated fire danger remains across much of the region.
Officials stress that today’s conditions are not typical for December and encourage residents to remain weather-aware until cooler, less windy conditions return.
