Austin, TX – March 13, 2025 – If you thought spring meant mild weather, think again! Austin is facing record-breaking heat this week, with temperatures soaring into the 90s—far above the usual March averages. Combine that with gusty winds and bone-dry conditions, and you have a recipe for extreme wildfire danger.
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Austin and much of Central Texas, urging residents to take fire safety seriously. With humidity levels dropping and winds picking up, even the smallest spark could ignite a fast-moving wildfire.
What’s Happening?
This unseasonable heatwave is pushing daytime highs to 92°F (33°C), making it feel more like mid-summer than early spring. The usual March high for Austin is around 69°F (20°C), so this is an extreme jump. But it’s not just the heat—strong winds and dry vegetation are setting the stage for a potentially dangerous fire situation.
The Forecast: Hot, Dry, and Windy
- Thursday, March 13: Expect sunny skies, intense heat, and strong winds. High: 92°F (33°C), Low: 63°F (17°C). Fire risk is at its peak due to the extreme dryness.
- Friday, March 14: More of the same—blazing sun and high wildfire danger. High: 91°F (33°C), Low: 57°F (14°C). Limit outdoor activities and stay hydrated.
- Saturday, March 15: A cold front is finally moving in, bringing cooler temperatures and a welcome breeze. High: 80°F (27°C), Low: 51°F (10°C). Fire risk will start to decrease.
- Sunday, March 16: A beautiful, more seasonable day. High: 77°F (25°C), Low: 46°F (8°C). Relief from the extreme heat at last!
Wildfire Danger: What You Need to Know
With these extreme conditions, any spark could turn into a full-blown wildfire. Here’s how to stay safe and help prevent fires:
- Avoid any outdoor burning! That means no campfires, fire pits, or burning debris.
- Be cautious with cigarettes and grills. Even a single ember can start a massive blaze.
- Clear dry brush away from your home to reduce the risk of fires spreading.
- Report any smoke or fires immediately to local authorities.
How to Beat the Heat
- Drink plenty of water! Dehydration can happen fast in extreme heat.
- Limit strenuous outdoor activities, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
- Check on pets, children, and elderly neighbors who may struggle in the heat.
- Keep your car cool. Never leave pets or kids inside, even for a few minutes!
Final Thoughts
This heatwave isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s dangerous. The risk of wildfires is at an all-time high, and we all need to do our part to stay safe and protect our communities. Austin, stay smart, stay cool, and stay fire-aware! Relief is coming soon, but for now, let’s get through this safely together.