The National Weather Service in Brownsville/Rio Grande Valley has issued a Red Flag Warning for all of Brownsville and the Rio Grande Valley from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Saturday due to critical fire weather conditions.
Because of this Red Flag Warning, the Brownsville Fire Department urges residents to take precautions and avoid outdoor burning. Under these conditions, fires could ignite and spread quickly.
According to the NWS, strong northerly winds of 10-20 mph, gusts up to 30 mph, and low humidity levels between 10-20% will create an increased risk for rapid fire spread across Deep South Texas.
Due to daily maximum heating, peak wind speeds are expected between 11:00 AM and 3:00PM; thus, fire danger will be greatest during this period.
Safety Tips During a Red Flag Warning:
- Avoid outdoor burning – This includes campfires, burning debris, and any open flames.
- Properly dispose of cigarettes – Do not discard cigarette butts on the ground or out of a vehicle.
- Secure trailer chains – Dragging metal chains can create sparks that ignite dry grass.
- Follow local restrictions – Check for any local burn bans or fire restrictions.
Residents should stay alert and report any smoke sightings immediately to 911. The City of Brownsville urges everyone to exercise extreme caution and help prevent potential wildfires.