Warm winds to fuel wildfire danger, possible travel delays and power outages in central US
Strong winds accompanying surging temperatures will fuel the potential for more wildfires and may lead to travel disruptions over the central United States prior to the end of the week.
Several wildfires have been burning in Texas this month, and the conditions may worsen the situation. A 2,500-acre fire forced evacuations of schools and homes and downed power lines in Willow Park, Texas, earlier this week.
The surge of warmth will send temperatures well into the 40s and 50s F across the north and the 60s and 70s across the south.
The core of strong winds will shift into the Midwest on Friday.
Within the core of the strong winds, from the southern Plains to the central Great Lakes, there may be sporadic power outages, broken tree limbs and minor property damage.
Strong crosswinds may also cause trucks to flip over on area highways.
Midwest braces for power outages, airline delays Friday
On Friday, the risk of high winds will extend from central Missouri and northeastern Kansas to much of Michigan, where gusts could reach 40-50 mph.
The risk of wildfires may be much lower in this area, due to moist brush and an influx of clouds and rain showers.
However, airline passengers should expect considerable delays due to the strong winds in Kansas City and St. Louis, Missouri, Chicago, Indianapolis, Milwaukee and eventually Detroit.
While aircraft may be able to take off and land in the conditions, the number of flights departing and arriving per hour may be reduced, especially during the busiest times.
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