Tucson, Arizona – Dangerously dry and windy conditions across Southeast Arizona could lead to rapid wildfire spread through 7 p.m. Wednesday, prompting a Red Flag Warning for multiple counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, Fire Weather Zones 151, 152, and 154—which include portions of Pima, Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Pinal, Santa Cruz counties, and the Coronado National Forest—will see southwest to west winds of 15 to 25 mph, gusting up to 40 mph, with relative humidity as low as 8%.
This combination of dry fuels and high winds creates “critical fire weather conditions,” particularly across the Desert Grasslands and Sky Islands above 5,500 feet. Areas such as Benson, Willcox, and the Santa Cruz Valley face elevated risk throughout the day.
Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Residents should avoid activities that create sparks, secure trailer chains, and keep emergency supplies ready. Fire crews across the region have been alerted.
Conditions are expected to improve by Wednesday night, but officials warn that similar warnings could return later this week depending on wind patterns and humidity.
Stay alert for updates from local emergency services and the National Weather Service.
