North Texas faces elevated fire risks amid unseasonably warm weather

In North Texas, the weather has taken a notably warm turn as people headed into the weekend of April 13, 2025. A ridge of high pressure in the upper atmosphere is causing above-average temperatures across the region, with Sunday afternoon expected to reach near record highs, flirting with 93°F in Dallas-Fort Worth. Wind patterns have shifted to a southwesterly direction, contributing to the unseasonable heat and dry conditions, which raises the potential for fire hazards, particularly in areas to the west. The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory, cautioning residents about gusty winds that could reach up to 40 mph. The heightened temperatures and breezy conditions combine to elevate fire risks, particularly in regions west of US 281, which may experience critical fire weather conditions this Sunday. Looking ahead into the week, a cold front is poised to affect North Texas on Monday. Set against the context of ongoing warm temperatures, this cold front is associated with a low-pressure system that promises a change in weather patterns. However, despite the frontal passage bringing clouds, current forecasts indicate that no rain is expected immediately following. The arrival of cooler air due to the front will see temperatures drop from the weekend highs in the low 90s to the mid-80s by Monday. Expectations are for a cooler timeline with highs diminishing further into the mid-70s by Tuesday. Long-range weather models hint at a shift in the upper-level weather patterns leading up to Easter weekend. Both GFS and Euro forecast models have predicted potential rain showers, although with a note of caution that conditions could change as the weekend approaches. The pressure will build again in the days following, allowing temperatures to bounce back into the 80s, accompanied by increasing winds. Minor disturbances moving along the upper ridge may further contribute to developing low-pressure systems strategically positioned to the northwest, intensifying the winds as the pressure gradient narrows. By the end of the week, additional upper-level disturbances may contribute to a higher probability of rain leading into the Easter weekend. This complex mix of weather influences necessitates keen monitoring as the CBS News Texas First Alert Weather Team assesses the development of moisture and rainfall. Numerous forecast shifts could affect both temperature and precipitation forecasts as events unfold in the coming days, making it vital for residents to stay informed through trusted weather updates.