Just before 5 a.m. Sunday in Austin, around 4:58 a.m. CST, it was mostly cloudy and about 56°F, with that muggy feel starting to ease as drier air slid in. Sunshine is expected to break through by mid-morning and send highs into the low 70s, with much of the metro topping out near 73°F this afternoon.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
According to the National Weather Service Austin/San Antonio, north-northwest winds will ramp up through the morning and peak in the late morning, with sustained speeds near 10-20 mph and gusts up to about 25-30 mph before easing later today. The strongest gusts are expected over the Hill Country and on exposed ridgelines, where you could see some dust kicked up and hear a few limbs rattling. Drivers of high-profile vehicles should use caution on bridges and overpasses during the gustiest hours.
Fire Risk And Restrictions
The NWS is also calling out "elevated to near critical fire weather conditions" on Sunday for parts of the southern Edwards Plateau and Rio Grande Plains, as lower humidity teams up with gusty winds to raise wildfire risk. At the same time, Travis County has an active burn ban that "prohibits outdoor burning in Travis County". The order covers unincorporated areas and will stay in place until it is lifted by the county judge or fire marshal. For the fine print, check the Travis County Fire Marshal.
Residents should skip open burning, use extra caution with grills and yard equipment, and report any uncontrolled smoke or flames to 911.
Midweek Heat Surge
Dry, warm air will hang around into the workweek. Highs near 78°F on Monday, February 16 climb into the low 80s by Tuesday, February 17 and reach the mid 80s by Wednesday, February 18, with a peak near 86°F possible on Thursday, February 19. Overnight lows will stay on the mild side, generally in the mid 50s to low 60s, so mornings will feel cool while afternoons turn noticeably springlike. That warm, dry stretch should keep rain chances minimal through much of the week.
Plan for sunny, warm afternoons and dress in layers for those cooler mornings. If you have outdoor events, aim for morning or late-day hours, and go ahead and secure any loose patio furniture before the gusty period. Updates will be posted here if any watches or advisories are issued.
