Fire Weather Watch Issued for Counties West of Houston
The National Weather Service has issued a fire weather watch for counties west of Houston, effective from 1-7 p.m. on Wednesday. This watch is a result of strong wind gusts and low humidity, which create an elevated risk of fires in the area.
Affected Counties
Residents in the following counties are urged to take precautions to prevent fires:
- Austin
- Brazos
- Burleson
- Colorado
- Fort Bend
- Grimes
- Jackson
- Madison
- Matagorda
- Waller
- Washington
- Wharton
Weather Conditions
Wind gusts reaching up to 25 miles per hour and a relative humidity of 14-20% have prompted the weather service to issue the fire weather watch. These conditions, combined with dry vegetation, create a high risk of fires.
Precautions to Take
To prevent fires, residents are advised to:
- Follow burn bans and other restrictions
- Avoid using anything that can cause sparks over dry vegetation
- Avoid parking on dry grass
- Report any fires to local officials
Wind Advisory in Effect
A wind advisory is also in effect across Harris County from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Tuesday. Sustained winds of 10-20 miles per hour with gusts up to 35 miles per hour are expected through Tuesday night.
Coastal Conditions
The strong winds also create an elevated risk of rip currents on Texas beaches from Tuesday until Wednesday morning. This is due to a tightening pressure gradient between a surface low pressure system east of the Rocky Mountains and a surface high centered over the Southeastern U.S.
Conclusion
The fire weather watch and wind advisory serve as a reminder to take precautions to prevent fires and stay safe in hazardous weather conditions. By following the guidelines and staying informed, residents can help prevent fires and minimize the risks associated with strong winds and dry conditions.
