Albuquerque, N.M. – Gusty winds and bone-dry air are creating dangerous fire conditions across New Mexico, with a Red Flag Warning in effect for the Middle Rio Grande Valley from noon to 7 p.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, southerly winds reaching 25 mph—gusting to 35 mph—combined with humidity as low as 5%, could cause any fire that starts to spread rapidly. A Fire Weather Watch is also in place for Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., covering central and west-central New Mexico as well as the Upper Rio Grande Valley.
The warning encompasses the Albuquerque metro area, Bosque, and surrounding communities. Officials urge residents to avoid any outdoor burning, secure ignition sources like cigarette butts, and remain alert to wildfire reports. Winds will shift southwesterly on Sunday, with even broader regions facing elevated fire danger.
This weekend’s conditions are among the most critical fire weather threats of the season so far. Officials may upgrade Sunday’s watch to a full warning if current models hold.
Both alerts come as part of a growing pattern of spring fire risk across the Southwest.
