Red Flag Warning Issued for Central Highlands and Northern New Mexico Through Sunday

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Red Flag Warning for the Central Highlands and surrounding regions. This alert is in response to critical fire weather conditions expected to impact the area. Additionally, a Fire Weather Watch has been issued for Sunday as conditions are forecast to intensify.

Affected Areas

The primary Red Flag Warning affects the Central Highlands (Zone 125), the Northeast Highlands, and the Northeast Plains. A broader Fire Weather Watch for Sunday covers all of northern and central New Mexico, including the Sandia and Manzano Mountains.

What You Should Do

Outdoor burning is not recommended and is strongly discouraged during this period. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and will be difficult to control. Residents should advise appropriate officials or fire crews in the field of these hazardous conditions. Prepare for potential extreme fire behavior and long-range spotting.

Expected Conditions

• Winds: On Saturday, west winds will reach 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. On Sunday, northwest winds will increase to 30 to 45 mph with damaging gusts reaching up to 70 mph.
• Humidity: Minimum relative humidity values are expected to remain between 7 and 10 percent each day.
• Hazards: Very strong to damaging winds will develop Sunday as Pacific and backdoor cold fronts move through the region, creating critical to extreme fire weather conditions.

Timeline

• Red Flag Warning: In effect Saturday, March 14, from 12:00 PM (noon) until 12:00 AM (midnight) MDT.
• Fire Weather Watch: In effect Sunday, March 15, from 9:00 AM through 8:00 PM MDT.