Thursday's Weather is All About Dust Storms & Wildfires

SAN ANGELO – West Texas weather Thursday will bring a mixed bag of blowing dust, gusty winds and wildfire danger and residents are urged to prepare today for isolated power outages and difficult driving conditions.  

Meteorologists with the National Weather Service in San Angelo have issued a Fire Weather Watch for Thursday afternoon from noon to midnight as a strong frontal system will bring west to northwest winds at 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph and blowing dust. 

That west wind is very dry with humidity levels in the teens and will combine with already dry fuels to create critical wildfire conditions region wide.  Any wildfires that ignite will spread rapidly out of control and could threaten life and property. 

In addition, those gusty high winds could down tree limbs and power lines leading to isolated power outages so residents are urged to fully charge phones and laptops Wednesday evening.  

Secure outdoor objects and avoid any activity that could cause a spark including outdoor grilling and welding.  

Tom Green County Commissioners Tuesday enacted a ban on all outdoor burning until further notice because of the very dry drought conditions.  

There is also a slight chance of severe thunderstorms Thursday afternoon with the passage of the frontal system.  The main threats will be damaging winds and large hail.  

The Fire Weather Watch could be upgraded to a Red Flag Warning depending on weather conditions.  Residents are urged to check back frequently for further weather updates and instructions.