FIRST ALERT: Strong winds and potential wildfire threat today

AMARILLO, Texas (KFDA) - A potent low pressure system is tracking near our area and is cranking up some powerful wind.

Unfortunately, the wind is from the southwest which is transporting very dry air through our region.

The combination of warm air in the upper 80′s, strong winds gusting over 60 mph, and relative humidity dropping below 10 percent will create a very dangerous environment for the start and spread of wildfires.

High Wind Warnings and a Red Flag Warning will be in effect for much of the area. For the High Wind Warning, that will be focused from the central to northwestern corner of the area, where gusts over 65 will be possible. The Red Flag Warning is area-wide.

We strongly encourage people to secure loose objects, avoid travel in high profile vehicles, and to stay alert and be ready for action if a wildfire threatens your location.

Every safety rule for the prevention of fires should be enacted including proper disposal of cigarettes, adjusting chains that can spark, and even pulling off a road into tall, dead vegetation.

We will be sending our frequent updates so stay tuned to various sources of information, including the NewsChannel 10 First Alert Weather app on your phone.

The First Alert Weather Team will be providing frequent updates on the timing, magnitude, and impact associated with this storm so stay tuned for further updates.

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