Albuquerque, N.M. – Fire danger is escalating across western New Mexico today as extreme heat and gusty winds combine with dry fuels, while flash flood risk is set to rise sharply by Sunday with incoming monsoon moisture.
According to the National Weather Service in Albuquerque, severe thunderstorms are possible from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday across northeast New Mexico, including Taos, Las Vegas, and Raton. Meanwhile, a hazardous heat risk persists through at least 8 p.m., with major heat alerts in the Rio Grande Valley and Union County.
On Friday and Saturday, areas including Farmington, Shiprock, Gallup, and Española face high fire danger due to hot, dry, and windy conditions. Fire starts may spread rapidly, especially in grassland or drought-stressed forests. Residents are urged to avoid open flames, discard cigarettes properly, and refrain from using equipment that could spark fires.
Monsoon rains are expected to begin Sunday, continuing through Wednesday. The greatest flooding potential will target burn scar areas and central New Mexico, with rainfall amounts possibly exceeding 2–3 inches.
Stay weather-aware and avoid travel near arroyos or flood-prone roads during heavy rain.
