LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Strong winds across the South Plains are our main weather concern today.
The wind, created by a pair of upper-level weather systems moving across the area, may gust near 50 mph in some areas. A Wind Advisory, issued by the National Weather Service, will be in effect until 6 this evening.
Wind Advisory
The strongest winds are expected in and near the Advisory area, though it will be windy across West Texas and eastern New Mexico.(KCBD First Alert)
The strongest winds are expected in and near the Advisory area, though it will be windy across West Texas and eastern New Mexico.
Under a sunny sky, westerly winds will rapidly increase to around 25 to 35 mph, with gusts near 50 mph, over the western viewing area. The central viewing area, including the Lubbock and Plainview areas, are likely to experience sustained speeds of 20 to 30 mph. Gusts of 40 to 50 mph are possible.
Exercise extra caution when driving, especially on north-south oriented roadways in open areas. The gusty winds from the west will be broadsiding vehicles.
Forecast peak sustained winds are shown in this graph. Peak gusts will exceed the values shown here.(KCBD First Alert)
There may be blowing dust, which may cause areas of low visibility, especially near open fields.
Today is a NO BURN DAY due to the wind, warmth, and continued dry conditions.
Take some time this morning to put away or otherwise secure any outdoor items which may be blown about or even become airborne in a strong wind. This might include trash cans, patio furniture, even decorations.
Windy with well-above average temperatures today.(KCBD First Alert)
Afternoon temperatures will be about 20 degrees above average for the date. Lubbock’s January 2 average high is 54°. The record high for the date is 77°, set in 1979 and tied on the date in 2009.
Winds will weaken fairly quickly after sunset, though will remain breezy until about midnight.
There may be a few sprinkles over the northeastern viewing area this evening.
A little colder tonight, but still be above normal for early January.(KCBD First Alert)
It will get a little colder tonight, but lows will still be above normal for early January.
Pleasant Saturday
The forecast takes a welcome turn tomorrow. I expect a mostly sunny day, a light wind, and comfortable afternoon temperatures. Though slightly cooler, highs tomorrow in the 60s are still ten or more degrees above average. All things considered, it will be a pleasant day.
Sunday will be even warmer, though it will become breezy.
Next Week
Above-normal temperatures continue through the end of next week. Highs Monday may approach record levels as westerly winds increase, adding to the warming.
We are watching a system which may bring showers to the South Plains around the middle of next week.(KCBD First Alert)
The pattern will gradually shift late next week, but confidence in any rain remains low for the extended period.
On This Date
On this date in 1994, high winds developed in the Lubbock area during the early afternoon. Wind gusts up to 59 mph were recorded at the Lubbock International Airport from 12:37 until 1:27 PM. The high wind shattered glass at a business in Lubbock and exacerbated several grass fires in and around Lubbock County.
(National Weather Service Lubbock)
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