Albuquerque, New Mexico – Fire danger returns Saturday as high winds and low humidity trigger a Red Flag Warning for central and eastern New Mexico. Gusts could reach 45 mph in the Albuquerque area, posing a threat to dry brush zones and areas along I-40.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, the warning is in effect from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday for the Middle Rio Grande Valley, Sandia and Manzano Mountains, Central Highlands, and East Central Plains. Relative humidity is expected to plummet to 9–14%, creating ideal conditions for fast-spreading wildfires. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.
Southwest winds will build throughout Saturday morning, peaking in the afternoon with sustained speeds of 20–30 mph. Areas from Santa Rosa to Moriarty may see the highest gusts. Fire officials urge residents to secure loose items, avoid spark-generating activities, and report any signs of smoke immediately.
After Saturday’s wind threat, calmer conditions return Sunday. Sunny skies dominate through midweek with temperatures steadily rising. Albuquerque will reach a high of 67°F Sunday and climb to 81°F by Thursday.
Five-Day Spring Weather Outlook for Albuquerque:
- Saturday: Windy, scattered rain early, high near 56°F
- Sunday: Sunny, high of 67°F
- Monday: Sunny, warmer at 75°F
- Tuesday: Partly cloudy, high of 78°F
- Thursday: Sunny and springlike, high of 81°F
