The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued red flag warnings for parts of New Mexico, Texas, and Colorado due to dangerous fire weather conditions.
These warnings took effect on Sunday, with additional fire weather watches set for Monday and Tuesday as conditions are expected to worsen.
Officials warn of “critical to near extreme fire conditions,” particularly in southern New Mexico and west Texas by Tuesday.
Why it Matters?
These warnings signal a potentially hazardous start to the wildfire season in the Southwest.
Strong winds, very low humidity, and dry vegetation create conditions where any fire that starts could spread quickly and become hard to control.
What to Know?
- In New Mexico, the NWS Albuquerque office reports that eastern New Mexico could experience wind gusts up to 65 mph by Tuesday, making conditions especially dangerous.
- Texas fire weather watches are in place for Tuesday, with winds expected to reach 25-35 mph and gusts up to 50 mph.
- In Colorado, the most severe conditions are expected Monday. Red flag warnings are in effect from noon to 9 p.m. MDT for Pueblo, Huerfano, Las Animas, Otero, and other counties. Forecasts predict southwest winds of 25-40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph and humidity as low as 10-11 percent. Fire weather watches are also in place for Tuesday afternoon and evening across Crowley, Kiowa, Bent, Prowers, and Baca counties.
- The NWS’s Fire Threat Index rates conditions as “critical to near-extreme” (4-7) by Tuesday in some areas.
What Officials Are Saying?
- National Weather Service statement: “A Red Flag Warning means critical fire weather conditions are either happening now or will soon. A mix of strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures can lead to extreme fire behavior.”
- NWS El Paso/Santa Teresa: “Any fires that develop will likely spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.”
- NWS Albuquerque: “A fire growth pattern will continue through Wednesday with breezy to windy conditions and very low humidity. Wind gusts up to 65 mph are possible in eastern New Mexico on Tuesday.”
- NWS Pueblo, Colorado: “Elevated fire danger is expected. Fires will spread rapidly and unpredictably.”
What Happens Next?
Residents in Affected Areas Should Stay Alert, Avoid Activities that Could Start Fires, and Be Ready to Act if Wildfires Break Out.
Emergency Management Teams Will Likely Increase Staffing and Resources to Prepare for Potential Fire Incidents.
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