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On Feb. 23, Granite Shoals Fire Rescue crews doused several areas on the perimeter of a fire which scorched approximatey 25 acres on rural property just east of Granite Shoals on RR 1431. Dry conditions, high wind and a trailer chain sparks are blamed for the blaze. Officials say similar conditions continue to spike the fire danger in the Highland Lakes. File photo
Due to dry conditions and lack of rain, public safety officials are warning residents to take special care on days when high winds start whipping through the Highland Lakes.
On March 17, winds as high as 40 mph were predicted exacerbating the wildfire dangers which come with an “abundance of critically dry fuels and critical to extreme fire weather,” according to a social media statement by Marble Falls Fire Rescue.
“[H]igh wind speeds gusting to 40 mph and low humidity levels will support wildfire ignitions today (arch 17),” the statement continued. “Any fires that ignite under these conditions will be difficult to control.
“Any wildfire that ignites in dry grass could move very rapidly with flame lengths of 10-15 feet, which equates to flames the height of a one-story building burning the length of a football field in a minute.”
The alert asked that resident report wildfires immediately.
“A quick response can help save lives and property. Extreme caution should be used today and help us prevent wildfires.”
Authorities recommended that residents:
• Don’t throw lit cigarettes out;
• Use caution when using flammable liquids;
• Don’t park a hot car or any other machine in dry grass;
• Use extreme caution when welding, barbequing, operating chainsaws tractors or off-road vehicles; and • If you are cooking
• If you are cooking outdoors, please make sure that you have a water source or a fire extinguisher near by.
According to accuweather.com, wind gusts were predicted up to 28 mph in the Marble Falls area on March 17; up to 35 mph on Friday, March 18; 15 mph on Saturday, March 19; up to 22 mph on Sunday, March 20.
Chances of precipitation were slim to none, Accuweather reported.