Austin Faces Fire Weather Risk After Record Heat

After record-breaking heat on Thursday, the Austin area is now expecting increased fire weather worries for the weekend. A windy cold front will approach on Friday, prompting the severe weather impact alerts for Friday and Saturday.

In addition, the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for most of the region from noon to 9 p.m. Friday. Morning fog and low clouds will give way to sunny and warm weather, with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s, which is slightly cooler than Thursday.

However, heavy afternoon winds of 25-35 mph in Austin and the I-35 corridor, and 35-40 mph in the Hill Country, will enhance the risk of wildfires. Officials advise households to avoid outside burning and examine fire safety plans.

Despite slightly milder temperatures, another round of strong gusts between 30 and 40 mph will increase the fire risk on Saturday. A Fire Weather Watch is now in force and might be raised to a Red Flag Warning.

Concerns about fire weather could subside significantly by Sunday, but vigilance is still advised, particularly in the Hill Country. Expect colder weather, with morning lows in the 40s and afternoon highs in the mid-70s.

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