At 2:08 p.m. on Friday, the National Weather Service issued a fire weather watch valid for Tuesday between 1 p.m. and 9 p.m. for El Paso County.

Winds are forecasted to be west 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph and relative humidity 9 to 14 percent.

“Approaching low pressure system moving on shore over the Pacific Northwest will induce stronger southwest flow aloft over the Southern Rockies early next week. Subsequent tightening of the surface pressure gradient will increase winds area wide. Strongest winds are forecast to occur Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, with gusty west winds midday. Drier air will also move in and create critical fire danger for much of southern New Mexico and far west Texas. Recent rains over mountain forests may reduce fire risk somewhat, but weather conditions will be favorable for rapid drying of fine fuels and increasing ERCs back above seasonal normals,” according to the NWS. “Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.”

According to the NWS, a fire weather watch means that critical fire weather conditions are possible. Listen for later forecasts and possible red flag warnings.

Source: The National Weather Service