BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A Red Flag Warning has been issued for parts of Deep South Texas Sunday as dry, gusty north winds sweep through the region behind a cold front, creating conditions ripe for rapid wildfire growth.
According to the National Weather Service in Brownsville, the warning is in effect from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday for Zapata, Jim Hogg, Brooks, and inland Kenedy Counties. Winds will blow from the north at 15 to 25 mph, gusting to 35 mph, while humidity levels drop to near 15% — creating critical fire weather conditions.
Forecasters warn that any spark could spread quickly, especially across the dry brush country north of the Rio Grande Valley. Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, welding, or parking vehicles on dry grass, and to report any signs of smoke or fire immediately. Local emergency officials note that strong winds may carry embers over long distances, worsening fire spread potential.
While coastal areas like Brownsville and South Padre Island will stay more humid, interior counties will remain very dry and breezy through the afternoon. Conditions should improve gradually after sunset as winds weaken and humidity rises slightly overnight.
