Norman, OK – A multi-day fire weather threat is developing across portions of the Desert Southwest and adjacent Southern High Plains, with significant fire danger anticipated from Wednesday, April 16 through Friday, April 18. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Storm Prediction Center, the threat is expected to persist into Saturday, April 19.
A deepening upper-level trough over the western U.S., coupled with a marked increase in southwesterly mid-level flow, will drive a sharp rise in winds and dry conditions across southeastern Arizona and much of New Mexico. On Day 3 (Wednesday), wind gusts will intensify, with relative humidity falling to single digits in southwestern New Mexico. The agency has issued a 70% probability of Critical fire weather conditions.
The fire weather risk will extend to southeastern Colorado and the western Oklahoma/Texas Panhandles by Day 4 (Thursday) as the upper-level trough amplifies, introducing even more severe conditions. A mix of dry winds, downsloping winds, and receptive fuels will contribute to the heightened fire risk.
Though rain and snow are expected by the end of the week in portions of the Southwest, the fire threat may linger in southern New Mexico and nearby areas into the weekend.
For up-to-date fire weather information and alerts, visit www.spc.noaa.gov/fire.
