Dangerous Conditions Lead to Red Flag Warning in East Texas

Very rarely will I ever type in all caps to drive home a point, but, the situation that we are in today definitely merits it.

PLEASE, PLEASE AVOID DOING ANYTHING THAT COULD START A FIRE

Red Flag Warnings have been issued for several counties throughout East Texas today.  Those counties include Walker, Houston, Madison, Smith, and Anderson, as well as almost all of central and north-central Texas.  This warning has been issued because now we are adding southwest winds gusting up to 25 mph and lower humidity readings into the mix.  The smallest of sparks could quickly lead to a 1000+ acre wildfire.

Here are several tips to help stop a fire from breaking out:

• No outdoor burning.  All of Deep East Texas with the exception of Jasper and Newton Counties are under a burn ban.
• Do not throw your cigarette butts out of your vehicle.  All it takes is a gust of wind to hit a dying ember from that cigarette and you have the start of a major blaze.
• Do not place a hot engine next to vegetation.  Numerous fires have been started when a car is parked on top of tall grass, or when a tractor is parked in a pasture.

Be cautious for the sake of the firefighters.  These brave souls have been working endlessly in oppressive situations.  Please keep them in your prayers.