Canyon Lake and Comal County remain under a red-flag warning through 9 p.m. today, and the U.S. National Weather Service Austin-San Antonio has added another warning effective noon through 9 p.m. Friday.
Wind, relatively low humidity and critically to extremely dry fuels in portions of the Hill Country and along the I-35 corridor are contributing to the potential for extreme fire behavior.
Any fires that develop under these conditions can spread rapidly and exhibit high resistance to suppression efforts.
The weather service also issued another heat advisory from noon to 9 p.m. Friday. Today’s advisory expires at 9 p.m.
Air temperatures of between 103-104 degrees Fahrenheit are expected, with heat indices of up to 109 degrees.
People should drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun and check up on relatives and neighbors.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
Wildfire Activity Increases ‘Substantially’
Texas A&M Forest Service said wildfire activity has increased substantially across Texas due to expanding drought conditions.
“Over the past two weeks, state and local firefighters have responded to 280 wildfires that burned almost 10,000 acres,” said Wes Moorehead, Forest Service fire chief.
A&M is working closely with the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), fire departments and local jurisdictions across the state to monitor conditions and assess needs locally, he said.
“It is vitally important that everyone be mindful of current conditions and remain diligent with any activity that creates sparks.”
As hot and dry conditions persist, Moorehead asks the public to:
- Obey local burn bans and outdoor burning restrictions. Wait to conduct any outdoor burning or light campfires until the burn ban has been lifted and weather conditions improve.
- Remember that nine out of 10 wildfires are caused by humans. When a burn ban is in place, residents should avoid outdoor activities that may cause a spark, including welding, grinding and using heavy machinery.
- Stay up to date on weather conditions and always use extreme caution when performing outdoor activities even if not under a burn ban.
Stay wildfire aware. If a wildfire is spotted, immediately contact local authorities. A quick response can help save lives and property.
For more information about summer wildfire prevention, visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/summerwildfires/.
