Weather Update for Dallas-Fort Worth
Update:
4:55 p.m. March 12, 2025: This story was updated with new details.
Storm Threat Fizzles Out
The storm threat for Dallas-Fort Worth fizzled out Wednesday as the region avoided a round of severe weather that had been in the forecast but a new threat of high winds will increase the risk of wildfires later this week, forecasters said.
The National Weather Service had placed much of North Texas under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch during the day and Ellis and Navarro counties were under a Severe Thunderstorm Warning during the early evening hours. Both were allowed to expire with no reports of widespread storms.
New Threat of High Winds
The new threat could be strong winds that are in the forecast for Friday.
Winds were already strong on Wednesday in areas west of Dallas-Fort Worth.
D-FW Weather Wise
Critical Fire Threat
Strong winds and low humidity are contributing to a critical fire threat for the areas between Graham and Killeen. A red flag warning was in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday, according to the weather service.
“A Red Flag Warning means that extreme fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly,” the service said on its site. “A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry vegetation can contribute to extreme fire behavior. Avoid all outside burning and welding today. Do not toss lit cigarette butts outside.”
Nearly all counties west of the I-35 corridor are under a critical fire threat Wednesday afternoon, according to a weather service graphic.
Severe Thunderstorms
To the east, severe thunderstorms may develop between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m. They are predicted to be the most severe in the Northern portion of that region, along the eastern edge of Dallas-Fort Worth and up to Paris.
Large hail and damaging winds are expected to be the greatest threats.
Fire Weather Watch
On Friday, North Texas is under a fire weather watch, according to the weather service, because humidity will be quite low and wind gusts could reach up to 50 mph.
Breaking news editor Carol Taylor contributed to this report.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the storm threat for Dallas-Fort Worth has fizzled out, but a new threat of high winds will increase the risk of wildfires later this week. It is essential to stay informed about the weather forecast and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a Red Flag Warning?
A: A Red Flag Warning means that extreme fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. It is a warning issued by the weather service to alert people of the high risk of wildfires.
Q: What are the main threats from the severe thunderstorms?
A: The main threats from the severe thunderstorms are large hail and damaging winds.
Q: What is a fire weather watch?
A: A fire weather watch is a warning issued by the weather service to alert people of the high risk of wildfires due to low humidity and strong winds.
Q: How can I stay safe during the critical fire threat?
A: To stay safe during the critical fire threat, avoid all outside burning and welding, and do not toss lit cigarette butts outside. Stay informed about the weather forecast and follow the instructions of local authorities.
