Near-record warmth and gusty winds are expected across the AgriPlex, creating elevated fire weather conditions for Ballinger and surrounding rural communities, according to the National Weather Service.
Afternoon highs will reach the upper 70s to lower 80s this week, nearly 20 degrees above normal for early January. West winds of 15 to 20 miles per hour, with gusts up to 25, combined with dry air will increase the risk of grass fires across pastureland and open fields.
Warm and dry conditions are expected to continue through midweek. Cooler air arrives late in the week, with highs dropping into the upper 50s and lower 60s. Light rain chances return Wednesday night into Thursday.
