At 3:45 a.m. on Wednesday, the National Weather Service issued an updated red flag warning valid between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. for El Paso and Hudspeth counties.

Residents can expect winds to be west 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph and relative humidity 12 to 18 percent.

“Breezy winds continue Wednesday afternoon behind Tuesday’s high wind event. Slightly higher humidity will keep the mountains out of Red Flag criteria, but much of the lowlands and desert floor will again reach critically dry thresholds. Outdoor burning remains discouraged around any brush, trees, or grasslands,” says the NWS. “Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.”

What does a red flag warning mean?

A red flag warning signifies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently in effect or will be shortly, as stated by 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 are the recommended measures to take 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 permitted in your area, ensure that all burn barrels have a weighted metal cover, complete with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Mindful handling 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 thwart accidental fires, diligently extinguish all outdoor fires. Suffocate them with an ample deluge of water and stir to ensure complete cooling. Submerge charcoal in water until it’s entirely devoid of heat. Never leave live charcoal unattended.

4. Never desert a blaze:

Avoid leaving any fire unattended. Even sparks or embers carried by the wind can ignite nearby leaves or grass, triggering a fire that spreads rapidly.

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is paramount in averting wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay impeccably informed, and assume responsibility to shield lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service