What’s A Red Flag Warning And Why Are They So Important in West Texas?

What exactly is a Red Flag Warning, and how should Lubbock citizens respond to them? Let's take a look at what they mean and how to go about our daily life when our city is under one.

Red Flag Warnings

The National Weather Service issues Red Flag Warnings to let us know that the conditions are just right for the tiniest spark to start a massive fire.

They aren't just about the extreme heat. They are also about our strong winds, low humidity, and incredibly dry vegetation. All of these thing scome together to create the perfect conditions for a fire to start and spread VERY rapidly.

Read More: When Rattlesnakes Show Up In Lubbock Yards And Fields

Most of us look at a Red Flag Warning as a day to be extra careful when we're enjoying the outdoors. Something as tiny as tossing a cigarette out of your truck or dragging trailer chains can ignite dry grass in the area. Once a fire begins, the West Texas wind can push it way out across a field in minutes.

Not. Good.

What To Do During A Red Flag Warning

• Avoid burning this outdoors, including brush piles and trash.
• Don't park in tall grass. Your car's hot exhaust may start a fire!
• Skip spark-related activities like welding or grinding outdoors.
• Properly dispose of your cigarette butts!
• Call 911 immediately if you spot smoke or a grass fire.

Listen...

Even if you're only running a few errands or commuting from place to place, a little extra care and caution can be the difference between everything. Red Flag Warnings are only issued because the conditions are right for some majorly fast-moving wildfires that can get out of hand quickly. They aren't issued because these things are already happening.

Taking a few simple steps to keep Lubbock safe is what makes you guys all great neighbors! Thanks for doing your part!