Fall cold front brings high wildfire threat to Austin

Because of gusty winds and low humidity expected behind a cold front blasting through Texas on Tuesday, a fire weather watch is in effect for Wednesday across most of Central Texas and it could be upgraded to a red flag warning if conditions worsen, the National Weather Service said. 

The strong cold front that is moving through Central Texas on Tuesday will bring a quick shift in winds and usher in much cooler, seasonable temperatures for the rest of the week.

Although the front will pass through mostly dry, aside from a few spotty showers north and east of Austin, it will be easy to tell when the front arrives because wind will quickly shift to the north and become quite blustery, with some gusts reaching 35 to 40 mph, close to triggering wind advisories from the weather service.

Despite the weekend rainfall, Central Texas soil remains dry, with Austin cumulative rainfall for the year still running about five inches below normal. 

Unfortunately, the air behind this front will be even drier, setting the stage for critical fire weather conditions. Gusty north to northwest winds and low humidity values between 15% and 25% will create an increased risk of rapid wildfire spread and an elevated fire danger through midweek.

Currently, 146 counties across Texas are under burn bans, including all counties in Central Texas and the Hill Country.

In Travis County, the burn ban means that all outdoor burning is prohibited, including:

Practicing wildfire safety will be key over the next several days and Texans need to remain vigilant and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately. 

•    Avoid outdoor burning or welding when winds are strong. Sparks can easily ignite dry grass and brush.
•    Properly dispose of cigarettes, never throw them out of a vehicle window.
•    Park vehicles on paved or gravel surfaces, not on dry grass, as hot exhaust systems can ignite fires.
•    Secure trailer chains to prevent them from dragging and creating sparks on roadways.
•    Keep a defensible space around your home by clearing away dry leaves, brush, and debris within at least 30 feet of structures.
•    Have an emergency plan and know multiple evacuation routes in case wildfire threatens your area.