A red flag warning was issued by the National Weather Service on Saturday at 4:11 a.m. valid for Sunday between noon and 10 p.m. for El Paso and Hudspeth counties.
Winds are forecasted to be southwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph and relative humidity 5 to 10 percent.
“Strong southwest flow aloft crossing the Southern Rockies will induce low surface pressure over the southern High Plains Saturday through Monday. Subsequent tightening of the surface pressure gradient will increase winds area wide from the west-southwest beginning this afternoon. Strongest winds are forecast to occur Sunday and Monday afternoons, with peak gusts around 45 mph over the high terrain, gaps, and east slopes. Very dry air remains in place while winds increase, creating critical fire danger for southern New Mexico and far west Texas. Fuel dryness is near normal for mid-May, but weather conditions will be favorable for rapid drying of fine fuels and increasing ERCs back above seasonal normals through the weekend,” according to the NWS. “Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.”
What is the significance of a red flag warning?
A red flag warning implies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently taking place or will occur shortly, according to the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire to spread rapidly.
What steps should you follow during a red flag warning?
A red flag warning demands vigilance and immediate readiness to respond to potential fires. The NWS provides these vital guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety:
1. Bolster burn barrel safety:
If burning is authorized in your vicinity, ensure that all burn barrels feature a weighted metal cover with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.
2. Responsible disposal of smoking materials:
Prudently discard cigarette butts and avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle. These seemingly innocuous actions can kindle dry grass, potentially triggering a wildfire.
3. Properly extinguish outdoor fires:
To prevent inadvertent fires, diligently douse all outdoor fires. Quench them with a copious deluge of water and stir to guarantee complete cooling. Submerge charcoal until it’s thoroughly bereft of residual heat. Never depart from live charcoal unattended.
4. Never leave fires unattended:
Avoid abandoning any fire without supervision. Even minor sparks or drifting embers can incite nearby foliage or grass, setting off a rapidly spreading fire.
Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in mitigating the risk of wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay well-informed, and act responsibly to safeguard lives and property.
Source: The National Weather Service
