Red Flag Warning Issued for Cimarron and Dallam Counties; Critical Fire Conditions Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Amarillo, TX, has issued a Red Flag Warning due to critical fire weather conditions. This alert indicates that a combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures will create favorable weather for rapid fire growth and spread. Additionally, a Fire Weather Watch has been issued for the following day.

Affected Areas

The Red Flag Warning specifically covers Cimarron County in Oklahoma and Dallam County in Texas. The broader Fire Weather Watch is in effect for the entirety of the Oklahoma and Texas Panhandles.

What You Should Do

Residents in the affected areas are strongly advised to avoid outdoor burning. Activities that promote open flames or sparks should be suspended, as any fires that develop will have the potential to spread rapidly. Residents should monitor local forecasts for updates and further warnings.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: Southwest winds between 20.0 and 30.0 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 45.0 mph.
• Humidity: Relative humidity levels are forecasted to drop as low as 8 percent.
• Fire Environment: The fire environment is currently rated at a 5 out of 10, with fuels (ERC) in the 70th to 89th percentile.

Timeline

• Red Flag Warning: Effective from 12:00 PM CST to 8:00 PM CST on Thursday, March 5.
• Fire Weather Watch: Effective from Friday morning, March 6, through Friday evening.