Will high winds in Fort Worth affect your health? What to know
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Red Flag Warning
What to know about fire risks in North Texas
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Fort Worth is under a red flag warning due to gusty winds and low humidity Monday, March 17.
On Wednesday, March 19, winds will be between 20 and 25 mph. Friday, March 21 will be worse, with anticipated gusts of 25 to 30 mph.
According to the National Weather Service, this week’s forecast will not create wind strong enough to do any property damage. Winds of 20 to 35 mph create “very low” and “low” threats to property and life.
The main concern for the North Texas region is fires, because if fires do spark, smoky wind can create long term health issues. Everyone reacts to smoke differently, but WebMD suggests avoiding it by not going outside.
Critical fire risks are in store for Monday and Tuesday, so here is what you should know if you experience high wind and smoke.
Are there health risks from high wind?
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Those with respiratory illnesses should avoid both warm and cold windy environments to avoid swelling of airways or irritation of lungs, according to the American Lung Association.
Especially if there is a fire, WebMD suggests using air purifiers or N95 masks or try filtering out the smoke pollutants. It’s important to make sure your HVAC system is using the air already circulating in your home rather than pulling air from outside.
You can check the Air Quality Index (AQI) in your area. As of March 17, Fort Worth’s air quality is in good standing.
How often should I change my air filter with windy conditions?
Those who live in windy conditions should check their home and car air filters. The windier it is, the quicker these filters can get dirty and not work as well.
The size of your home, if you have pets and the outside air quality will determine how often you should change your air filter.
One Hour Air Fort Worth in north Texas recommends changing your air filter around four times a year (or every three months).
You’ll know when you need to change your home’s air filter just by visual inspection.
Pay attention to a clean filter and compare, is dust collection on vents, fans and around the house? Check to see if your air filter is lint ridden.
Hold up the air filter to the light. Does any light pass through? If not, you should change your filter.
You should check your car’s owners’ manual for how often you should change your car air filter, but common wisdom is to replace the air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles (or once a year). It also depends on how dusty it is outside. Just like a home’s filter, you can tell if your car needs a change in filter by visual inspection– is it built up with dirt and debris? Then your car needs a new filter.
This story was originally published March 17, 2025 at 3:32 PM.