Tucson, AZ — A Red Flag Warning has been issued for the Tucson metro area and surrounding counties as critical fire weather conditions are expected Tuesday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Tucson, the warning is in effect from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. MST Tuesday, impacting Fire Weather Zones 150, 151, and 152. These include areas below 5,000 feet across Pima, Pinal, Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, and Santa Cruz counties, as well as the Tohono O’odham Nation and parts of the San Carlos Reservation.
Forecasters expect west winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching 45 to 50 mph, combined with relative humidity as low as 10%. These conditions significantly increase the risk of rapid fire spread, especially in dry vegetation zones.
Residents are urged to avoid any outdoor burning, secure loose debris, and report smoke immediately. Fire crews are advised to stay alert for fast-changing conditions that may affect suppression efforts.
This Red Flag Warning replaces the earlier Fire Weather Watch. Officials emphasize that even small fires could grow uncontrollably under Tuesday’s conditions.
For updates, visit the National Weather Service Tucson site or follow local emergency management alerts.
