Severe Heat Wave and Elevated Fire Risks Expected in South Plains and Rolling Plains 8/21

Photo byNational Weather Service

LUBBOCK — Issued by the National Weather Service at 2:51 AM CDT on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for parts of the South Plains, Rolling Plains, and the far Southern Texas Panhandle, warning of extreme heat and potential fire weather risks in the coming days. The advisory, which will take effect between 1 PM and 8 PM CDT today, highlights dangerously high temperatures expected across the region.

Heat Advisory Issued for Wednesday

A Heat Advisory has been issued for today, with temperatures forecasted to soar between 105°F and 109°F across the central and southern South Plains as well as the Rolling Plains. The heat will create dangerous conditions for outdoor activities and increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Counties Under Heat Advisory

This alert affects counties such as Lubbock, Crosby, Terry, Garza, Childress, and more, covering the South Plains and Rolling Plains regions. Residents are urged to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated.

Elevated Fire Weather Risk Later in the Week

In addition to the extreme heat, elevated fire weather conditions are expected to develop across portions of the region on Thursday. The combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds could lead to rapid fire spread, especially in areas with dry vegetation.

Key Details:

• Heat Advisory Timing: 1 PM - 8 PM CDT Wednesday for the South Plains and Rolling Plains.
• Fire Weather Risk: Thursday, particularly in areas with dry conditions, where wildfire potential will be heightened.
• Affected Areas: South Plains, Rolling Plains, and Southern Texas Panhandle.

Precautionary Measures for Residents

Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day and to stay hydrated. Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Additionally, outdoor burning should be avoided due to the heightened fire risk, particularly on Thursday and Friday.

Spotter Activation

Spotter activation is not expected at this time. However, spotters are encouraged to monitor conditions and report any significant weather developments, particularly related to heat and fire threats.

Seek Out Updates

Weather Watches, Warnings & Advisories are frequently updated. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, or your local news channels and NOAA All Hazards. Please follow Thumbwind Publications for more local weather and news updates.