Central Texas Warms Up After Cool Monday, Elevated Fire Danger Midweek

Following a chilly start to Monday morning in the lower 40s, Central Texas will experience a considerable warmth, with afternoon highs reaching the mid- to upper 70s under partly sunny skies. 

As the South By Southwest festival proceeds, temperatures will progressively rise throughout the week, culminating near 90°F on Thursday behind a Pacific front, making it the warmest day of 2025.

While the warming trend benefits outdoor activities, it also increases the risk of fires. Winds are forecast to pick up midweek, with 25-30 mph gusts from the south. 

The Texas A&M Forest Service has rated Hill Country counties as "very high" fire hazard, while the Austin metropolitan area is classified as "high" fire risk. Mason County is under the most severe threat, with areas designated as "extreme" fire danger by Wednesday.

Rain prospects remain unknown, but a Pacific front could bring scattered showers and storms later this week. However, early projections indicate that rainfall will be limited, with some places receiving only a few hundredths of an inch.

Residents are urged to take measures against fire threats as dry conditions prevail, especially as high winds blow through the region.