Fire Weather Watch Issued for Saturday: High Fire Risk Due to Low Humidity, Strong Winds, and Warm Temperatures

The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Fire Weather Watch for much of west-central New Mexico, including the Sandia and Manzano Mountains, Northeast Highlands and Plains, and the Central Highlands. The watch is in effect from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday, January 4, 2025. This alert comes in response to a combination of critical fire weather conditions expected to develop in these areas.

A weather system passing over northern New Mexico is forecast to bring strong southwest to west winds, driving drier air and significantly above-average temperatures into the region. Winds are expected to reach 25 to 35 mph at the 20-foot level, with gusts between 35 and 55 mph. Simultaneously, relative humidity levels are predicted to drop to as low as 10-15 percent, creating ideal conditions for rapid fire spread.

The affected zones include the Northeast Plains, West Central Mountains, West Central Basin and Range, Northeast Highlands, Sandia and Manzano Mountains, and Central Highlands. The critical fire risk will persist from late Saturday morning through the evening. Winds are expected to gradually weaken, and humidity levels should recover after sunset, reducing the fire threat.

Residents and officials are advised to remain vigilant. Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged during this time. Any fires that develop are likely to spread quickly due to the dry, windy, and unstable conditions.

For those in the affected areas, it is crucial to monitor local weather updates and ensure that fire safety measures are in place. Please notify fire crews or appropriate officials of this Fire Weather Watch to help mitigate potential risks.

Stay safe and prepared as these critical weather conditions approach.