The National Weather Service says Sunday’s forecasted wind gusts of 20-30 mph “will be just an appetizer” for Tuesday’s potential for very strong 40-50 mph wind gusts trailing a Pacific cold front.
The combination of windy conditions and dry air could lead to critical fire-weather conditions that support the rapid spread of wildfires.
Currently there are no fire warnings in place for Canyon Lake, but meteorologist Constantine Pashos, who works in the U.S. National Weather Service Austin-San Antonio’s New Braunfels office, said residents should remain alert.
Red flag warnings could be issued next week as warm temperatures, very low humidity and stronger winds combine to increase the risk of fire danger.
Since Jan. 1, state and local firefighters have responded to 462 wildfires that have burned 9,093 acres statewide.
“Most of Texas is experiencing a warming and drying trend,” Pashos said. Freeze-cured grasses elevate the risk.
Texas A&M Forest Service Chief Jared Karns said Texans should prepare for wildfires, work to prevent them and heed warnings of local officials.
This week, Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to activate state emergency response resources including Texas Interstate Fire Mutual Aid Systems (TIFMAS), which Canyon Lake Fire/EMS supports.
Now on standby are state and local firefighters, support personnel, fire engines, bulldozers and motor graders, federally contracted firefighting aircraft including large air tankers, single-engine air tankers for retardant drops, air attack platforms for surveillance and spotting, and helicopters with firefighting capability.
Take Precautions
Ninety percent of wildfires are caused by people and their activities, meaning most are preventable.
Outdoor activities that may cause a spark include:
- Debris burning. This is the number one cause of wildfires in Texas. Always check for and follow local burn bans. Avoid burning on hot, dry or windy days. As of March 1, Comal County’s burn ban is off.
- Equipment use. Equipment use is the second-leading cause of wildfires. Keep all vehicles in good working order and avoid parking and driving in tall, dry grass. Catalytic converters can spark dry grass.
Prepare for wildfires:
- Create a go kit. Build a kit with people and pet supplies, prescriptions, important papers, personal needs, and priceless items.
- Plan evacuation routes. Identify at least two evacuation routes and pre-load them into your vehicle or cell phone.
- Follow instructions of local officials. Sign up for local alerts and notifications from local emergency response officials.
