At 2:46 a.m. on Thursday, the National Weather Service released an updated red flag warning valid between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. The warning is for Northern Liberty, Inland Harris, Inland Jackson, Inland Matagorda, Inland Brazoria, Inland Galveston, Southern Liberty, Coastal Harris, Coastal Jackson, Coastal Matagorda, Coastal Brazoria and Coastal Galveston as well as Houston, Trinity, Madison, Walker, San Jacinto, Polk, Burleson, Brazos, Washington, Grimes, Montgomery, Colorado, Austin, Waller, Chambers, Wharton and Fort Bend counties.

Expect winds to be north 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph and relative humidity as low as 18 percent.

“Low relative humidity, breezy winds, and dry fuel will lead to elevated fire weather conditions across Southeast Texas,” says the NWS. “Any wildfires that start could rapidly increase in size and intensity, and move quickly.”

What does a red flag warning indicate?

A red flag warning means that extreme fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly, according to the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire spreading rapidly.

What steps should you follow during a red flag warning?

A red flag warning demands vigilance and immediate readiness to respond to potential fires. The NWS provides these vital guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety:

1. Secure burn barrels:

If burning is permitted in your area, ensure that all burn barrels have a weighted metal cover, complete with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Mindful handling of smoking materials:

Steer clear of haphazardly discarding lit cigarette butts and avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from moving vehicles. These innocuous-seeming actions can kindle dry vegetation, potentially spawning a wildfire.

3. Prudent fire extinguishing practices:

To prevent inadvertent fires, diligently douse all outdoor fires. Quench them with a copious deluge of water and stir to guarantee complete cooling. Submerge charcoal until it’s thoroughly bereft of residual heat. Never depart from live charcoal unattended.

4. Never leave fires unattended:

Avoid leaving any fire unattended. Even sparks or embers carried by the wind can ignite nearby leaves or grass, triggering a fire that spreads rapidly.

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in mitigating the risk of wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay well-informed, and act responsibly to safeguard lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service