Weather

Elevated to critical fire weather is expected to persist across the South Plains and broader West Texas region as record-breaking March heat, strong winds and ongoing drought conditions continue to dry out vegetation. Officials warn that despite a brief cooldown from a passing cold front, wildfire risk will remain moderate into early next week, with recent fires in the Panhandle and South Plains underscoring the growing danger.

Texas experienced an unusually warm and dry winter, driven by climate change. Experts warn the trend could worsen drought and extreme heat, while advocates say rising temperatures may also increase pollution exposure and health risks for vulnerable communities across the state.

Both of Texas Tech’s basketball teams begin play in the NCAA Tournament today, looking to bounce back from winless stints in the Big 12 Tournament. Our reporter Bishop Van Buren breaks down the matchups. Meanwhile, Texas fire officials are keeping a close watch over the weekend amid what has already been a busy season for firefighters.

Just two weeks ago, West Texas was one of many regions hit by a snowstorm and sub-zero temperatures. Now, this week, Lubbock is experiencing highs in the 70s. Our Charley Maranville has more from a local expert on how these intense fluctuations impact your ability to stay healthy. Also following last month’s winter storm, KERA’s Avery Escamilla-Wendell reports that some Texans could see much higher electricity and gas bills.

At least six of the victims in Texas were children. Nationally, the storm has reportedly killed at least 50 people.

Texas officials say at least 12 people have died over the course of the winter storm that brought freezing temperatures and icy conditions across the state this week. As The Texas Newsroom’s Lucio Vasquez reports, around half of the victims were children. Monday is the deadline to register to vote in the March 3 primary election. Our Michelle Waida reports you can find registration information, including status and applications, at votelubbock.gov. Applications can be delivered to the Lubbock County Elections Office at 1308 Crickets Avenue.

A powerful winter storm walloped a huge swath of the U.S., killing at least 25 people. Electricity is out for hundreds of thousands, and freezing rain and snow have coated streets.

Freezing temperatures and hazardous road conditions here in Lubbock have continued after the weekend, prompting area school districts, colleges, and universities to cancel today's classes. Much of the country is still dealing with dangerous winter weather, putting power grids under strain from coast to coast. The Texas Newsroom’s Lucio Vasquez reports that ERCOT says the state energy grid is performing better now than in 2021's winter storm. Another severe weather event in Texas this past summer could have traumatic effects for thousands of adults and children for months or even years. Texas Public Radio's Norma Martinez has more on mental health response following the July 4th floods in Kerr County.

Reporters from across the NPR Network are covering the storm in each state — the impact and how officials are responding.

Lubbock County, the South Plains and Texas Panhandle were included in a disaster declaration for more than 130 Texas counties ahead of Winter Storm Fern. Here are best practices for staying safe at home and on the road.