Drought Information
El Niño helped to enhance precipitation amounts in recent months, effectively eroding drought conditions across the region. However, long term (hydrologic) drought persists in portions of Central Texas.
Current Drought Conditions
Fire Danger
Limited precipitation in recent weeks has reignited wildfire concerns. The days of greatest concern for fire initiation and spread will be those that are sunny and warm with low humidity and breezy winds.
Warm season vegetation is beginning to emerge from winter dormancy, but the fire season will continue into the spring. Even if a formal ban is not in effect for your area, it is still important to be vigilant about fire usage. Avoid open flames near dry vegetation, and assure all coals and embers are fully extinguished.
The Keetch-Byram Drought Index is a drought statistic specifically designed to assess fire danger.
Drought Links
National Integrated Drought Information System
National Drought Mitigation Center