LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – If it weren’t for the holiday decorations, you wouldn’t notice that we’re nearing the end of December, based on these temperatures.
Friday’s warmth and wind is being driven by a very flat, fast-moving pattern in the upper atmosphere.
The jet stream isn’t dipping south like it usually does around this time of year, which means we aren’t seeing colder air from the north reach our region. Instead, air is moving straight west to east, allowing warm, dry air to slide in and stay put.
At the surface, lower pressure deepening in the Rockies is pulling air across West Texas, and that’s why the wind is picking up this afternoon.
You’ll likely notice the wind first, warmth second. Southwest winds increase through the afternoon, gusty at times, and paired with very dry air. Temperatures climb into the low to mid 70s, which is well above average for late December.
The combination of wind, warmth, and low humidity leads to elevated fire danger. A Red Flag Warning has been issued for northwest portions of our viewing area through 6 p.m.
Winds will ease slightly but not completely as we head into Friday night. A lingering breeze will act like a blanket, keeping temperatures from dropping too much. Expect lows in the mid 40s.
Saturday, temperatures are expected to peak…