Albuquerque, New Mexico – Strong winds and single-digit humidity could spark fast-moving fires across central New Mexico Sunday, prompting urgent safety warnings. A Fire Weather Watch is in effect from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday for the Middle Rio Grande Valley and West Central Basin and Range, including Albuquerque and areas along I-25.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, southwest to west winds will increase through Sunday afternoon, with gusts up to 40 mph and humidity as low as 6 percent. These conditions are ideal for fire ignition and rapid spread. Residents are strongly advised to avoid outdoor burning and secure anything flammable.
Communities in Zone 106 and Zone 109, including Albuquerque, Socorro, and parts of Valencia and Cibola counties, are especially vulnerable. The Pacific cold front pushing through will also bring falling temperatures Sunday evening after the high reaches around 79°F. Fire crews across the region are on standby.
Saturday offers a break, with mostly clear skies and a high of 85°F under lighter winds. Sunday turns breezy and dangerous by late morning. Expect clearer skies again by Monday, though a slight chance of showers could bring relief to some parched areas.
📅 Five-Day Forecast for Albuquerque:
- Saturday: Sunny, high of 85°F. Light southwest winds.
- Sunday: Mostly sunny and breezy. High of 79°F. Fire risk midday to evening.
- Monday: Partly sunny with a 20% storm chance. High of 72°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny and dry. High of 77°F.
- Wednesday: Warm and mostly clear. High of 83°F.
