AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Recent fires in our area, along with dry and windy conditions, have led to red flag fire danger warnings for the Texas Panhandle over the Easter holiday weekend.

Despite recent moisture the danger is higher than you may realize.

"The fuel (vegetation) that's been dry through the winter is dead and doesn't take on moisture, so it's still very dry and what happens when the temperature warms up, humidity drops, and winds come through, that dry fuel is susceptible to burning even if the ground itself is somewhat still wet," said Richard Lake, Potter County Fire Chief.

Even though many counties do not have burn bans in place, fire officials say that with a red flag fire danger warning, people should avoid burning trash, or starting any outdoor fire.

"Any fire that is started has the ability to quickly get out of the control of any body who is around," said Chief Lake.

Fire officials say that for this Easter holiday weekend that even grills should be closely monitored and those cooking out should use extreme caution.