Tucson, Ariz. – Strong southwest winds and dangerously low humidity could trigger rapid fire growth across southeast Arizona and southern New Mexico on Sunday, prompting fire weather watches across both states.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson and El Paso, gusts could reach up to 45 mph from late Sunday morning through Sunday evening, with relative humidity plunging to as low as 8–11 percent. The watch includes Arizona’s Fire Weather Zones 151–153 and New Mexico’s Zone 111, covering areas like Cochise County, Santa Cruz County, and the Las Cruces BLM district.
Communities from Sierra Vista and Safford to Deming and Lordsburg face elevated wildfire threats. Critically dry fuels combined with gusty winds mean even a small spark could quickly spread out of control. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Residents should secure loose items, avoid open flames, and stay alert to evolving fire conditions.
This setup follows a dry and breezy spring pattern, with Sunday’s conditions resembling previous high-risk fire days in early May. The most at-risk areas are below 5,500 feet in elevation, where fuel dryness and wind exposure peak.
Fire weather watches remain in effect through 9 p.m. Sunday. Red Flag Warnings may be issued as conditions evolve.
