Albuquerque, New Mexico – Powerful winds and critically low humidity will create explosive fire conditions across eastern New Mexico beginning at 9 a.m. Friday, with the highest risk lasting through 6 p.m. MST.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect for the Northeast Plains, East Central Plains and Central Highlands. West winds will sustain at 25 to 40 mph with gusts reaching 50 to 60 mph. Relative humidity will drop to between 12 and 19 percent during peak heating this afternoon.
Any fire that starts will spread rapidly.
Communities including Las Vegas, Tucumcari and Clines Corners face the greatest risk as dry grasses and strong crosswinds align. High-profile vehicles along Interstate 40 and U.S. 54 may also encounter difficult travel due to strong gusts and blowing dust.
What residents should do now: Avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains and report smoke immediately to local authorities.
Winds gradually ease after sunset, but dry conditions will persist into the weekend with additional elevated fire weather possible. The Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. MST Friday.
