West Texas is experiencing a spell of unseasonably warm weather, with temperatures in Abilene reaching toward the mid 80s, reminiscent of May rather than February. On Tuesday, the temperature at the Abilene Regional Airport reached 85 degrees, just one degree shy of tying the record for February 20th, set in 1976. This trend continued into Wednesday, with temperatures climbing back into the 80s, peaking at 88 degrees. The National Weather Service and other weather outlets have highlighted the warm and dry conditions, combined with strong gusty winds, low humidities, and dry antecedent conditions, as creating favorable conditions for wildfire growth and spread in western Texas and southeastern New Mexico. Despite the warmth, record highs for the date, which are 92 in Abilene and 93 for San Angelo, are expected to remain unchallenged.
Another very warm day Wednesday in Abilene. The high temperature was 88 degrees. This is a high temperature you would expect in May. Cooler air is back for Thursday and Friday. https://t.co/ylV3sak0rK
Already back in the 80s Wednesday afternoon. Record highs for the date are 92 in Abilene and 93 for San Angelo, Those records are likely safe for today - but it's still warm for February. https://t.co/4mmhGqqyZw
I hope you're enjoying this warm Wednesday! #Txwx https://t.co/u7JSkAn94G
Unseasonably warm and dry conditions will combine with strong gusty winds across western TX and southeastern NM to create conditions favorable for wildfire growth and spread. https://t.co/VyWINDk3xP https://t.co/Qk90YDAnZ0
Near record high temperature for the date in Abilene Tuesday afternoon. The temperature reached 85 degrees - just one degree shy of the record for February 20th. Other locations also reached the 80s Tuesday. This very warm air will continue into Wednesday night. https://t.co/vErzE9SzYX
🔥The southern High Plains—specifically eastern New Mexico and west Texas—are at risk of wildfires on Wednesday. Low humidities, blustery winds, and dry antecedent conditions will create an environment favorable for fire growth and sustenance. @MatthewCappucci has an update. https://t.co/4OhsrTF7xm
We're having another unseasonably warm day in West Texas. #Txwx https://t.co/cIDxta4Km6
Tuesday high temperatures are reaching toward the mid 80s! We could see our warmest temperature of 2024 and could possibly tie a record dating back to 1976 at the Abilene Regional Airport. ☀️ https://t.co/4fcJDLXWGQ
Tuesday high temperatures are reaching toward 85! This could be our warmest temperature of 2024 and could possibly tie a record dating back to 1976 at the Abilene Regional Airport. ☀️ https://t.co/a9hFhhagta