WHARTON, Texas – An urgent Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 7 p.m. CDT this evening across portions of southeast and south-central Texas, as strong northwest winds and low humidity combine to create critical fire weather conditions. The National Weather Service in Houston/Galveston expanded the warning to include Austin County, joining Colorado, Wharton, Jackson, and Matagorda Counties, where wildfire danger is elevated through sunset.
According to the National Weather Service, northwest winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts near 40 mph and humidity as low as 15 percent will keep conditions extremely dry. Temperatures hovering near 70 degrees will further support rapid fire spread in cured grasses and brush. Any spark—from vehicles, power tools, or outdoor burning—could lead to a fast-moving wildfire.
Officials urge residents to avoid all outdoor burning, defer welding or grinding projects, and secure trailer chains to prevent sparks along roadways. Drivers should also avoid parking vehicles on dry grass, where hot exhaust systems can ignite vegetation. County burn bans remain in effect and should be strictly followed.
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, recent dry weather has left vegetation highly flammable across inland counties and the Matagorda coastline. Firefighters remain on high alert through the evening hours as winds remain gusty before tapering off tonight.
Calmer conditions and higher humidity are expected overnight, but breezy, dry weather may return this weekend, prolonging the elevated fire danger across southeast Texas.
