Happy Thursday, North Texas!

We’re headed for another unseasonably warm and breezy afternoon across the region. High temperatures will climb well into the 70s areawide, with a few southern counties flirting with the lower 80s. Skies will feature a mix of sun and passing clouds through the day.

A cold front will sweep through the area this afternoon. As it moves across North Texas, winds will shift from the southwest to the west and eventually northwest. Gusts could reach up to 30 mph at times, especially during the mid to late afternoon hours.

That wind shift combined with warm temperatures and falling humidity levels will significantly elevate the fire danger today. The greatest concern will be just northwest of the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, where a Red Flag Warning is in effect. Under these conditions, any fire that starts could spread rapidly.

Fire Safety Reminders:

• Avoid any outdoor burning.
• Secure trailer chains to prevent sparks.
• Properly discard cigarettes – never toss them from a vehicle.
• Avoid parking vehicles on dry grass.
• Delay activities that could produce sparks.

Fire danger will remain elevated through sunset before gradually easing this evening as winds begin to relax.

By Friday, cooler air settles in behind today’s front. Afternoon highs will scale back into the 60s with a few lower 70s. Northwest winds will be lighter, and we’ll keep a mix of sun and clouds in place.

Another reinforcing cold front arrives Saturday, keeping temperatures on the cool side through the remainder of the weekend and into early next week. Highs will stay below today’s levels, but no major cold blast is expected.

Rain chances remain very limited. Outside of a slim 10% chance of a brief, isolated shower with Saturday’s front, the forecast stays dry. Looking ahead, temperatures rebound nicely by midweek next week, with highs returning to the 70s.

Stay weather aware – and especially fire aware – today, North Texas. -William