Damaging High Winds Causing Elevated Wildfire Risk

SAN ANGELO – The storm system that blew through West Texas overnight dumped .25 inches of rain at the airport in San Angelo but the strong, gusty southwest winds will be the biggest threat for the next 48 hours. 

The line of thunderstorms blew through the area quickly in the early morning hours behind the frontal system.  The storms remained below severe limits and were moving so fast they didn't produce much rainfall.  

Meteorologists with the National Weather Service office in San Angelo have issued a Wind Advisory for Valentine's Day as gusty winds from the southwest will blow from 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.  Those winds will combine with low humidity, or very dry air, to elevate the chance of wildfires spreading out of control. 

Elevated to near critical fire weather conditions are possible mainly across the southern Concho Valley Tuesday afternoon. 

Winds of this strength could down tree limbs and power lines causing isolated power outages.  Travel could be difficult in high profile vehicles.  

The Wind Advisory is in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday. 

Look for much colder air to enter the area Wednesday night.  After a warm and breezy afternoon Wednesday with highs in the mid 70s, temperatures will drop to 32 degrees Wednesday night then the mid 20s Thursday night.  The breezy and dry conditions will continue all week.  

Look for a warmer day Sunday with highs around 70 degrees with another chance of rain by Sunday night into Monday.