Austin woke up to a muggy start near 60°F, but the cool feel will not stick around for long. Sunshine will drive afternoon highs to around 88°F, and gusty north to northeast winds will knock down humidity, cranking up wildfire danger across the Hill Country and western counties. Officials warn that with dry fuels, warm temperatures, and afternoon gusts in the mix, a single stray spark could spread quickly.
Red Flag Warning And Fire Risk
The National Weather Service has placed much of the Hill Country and western South Central Texas under a Red Flag Warning from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday. Forecasters expect post-frontal north winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 30 mph and minimum humidity dropping into the teens, a combination that can create near-critical to critical fire weather.
Afternoon Winds And Temperatures
In Austin, temperatures should top out in the upper 80s, with a few spots well west or southwest of the city flirting with 90°F. North to northeast gusts into the mid 20s this afternoon will make it feel even drier and heighten the danger for any outdoor fire activity. Earlier coverage flagged the same warm, windy pattern and rising fire concerns; see those growing fire concerns for background and local burn-ban notes.
When Relief Might Arrive
Relief is not looking likely through Tuesday. Forecasters are keeping measurable rain out of the picture into early next week, with only low to medium chances of showers and thunderstorms, around 20 to 40 percent, showing up by midweek. Daytime highs are expected to hold in the 80s through the weekend, with a modest cooldown next week as southerly return flow brings back more humidity. Check the National Weather Service for timing details and updates.
Quick Safety Tips
Postpone any yard burns, skip parking or driving on dry grass, and secure grills and loose outdoor items while the gusty winds hang around. If you see smoke or a wildfire, call 911 and give as precise a location as you can. Before using any spark-producing equipment, check your county’s website for current burn-ban rules.
