Red Flag Warning and Fire Weather Watch for Sandia and Manzano Mountains
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Red Flag Warning for the Central Highlands, including the Sandia and Manzano Mountains, in effect today (Friday, March 13) from noon until 8 p.m. MDT. A Fire Weather Watch has also been issued for a broader region, including west central New Mexico, northern New Mexico, and the central highlands, from Saturday noon until 10 p.m. MDT.
Today's warning reflects gusty afternoon and early evening winds redeveloping across the Central Highlands, combined with critically low humidity levels. While wind speeds will not match yesterday's intensity, conditions remain dangerous for any fires that may ignite. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly and will be hard to control.
Conditions are expected to intensify on Saturday afternoon, when winds will strengthen on a more widespread basis across the state. West winds of 20 to 35 mph with peak gusts of 35 to 45 mph are forecast, with the strongest winds expected during the evening hours. Relative humidity will drop to between 6 and 15 percent, creating critical fire weather conditions, particularly over the central to northeastern highlands. The combination of strong winds, very warm temperatures, and extremely dry air will create dangerous fire spread conditions across much of the state.
Residents of Torrance County, Mountainair, Estancia, and the surrounding highlands are urged to avoid any outdoor burning during this period. Those with scheduled prescribed burns or controlled fires should consult with local fire management officials before proceeding. Residents should also be prepared to act quickly if fires develop, as conditions will make containment extremely difficult.
For the latest forecast updates, visit the Albuquerque office of the National Weather Service. Torrance County residents can receive timely alerts by signing up for TextMyGov notifications:
- Text TORRANCE COUNTY to 80946 for general and emergency alerts
- Text TORRANCE FIRE ALERTS to 80946 for information on prescribed burns or active fires in the area
- Text TORRANCE NWS to 80946 for weather-related alerts