…CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS POSSIBLE MONDAY SOUTHWEST NM
AND FOR SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO AND FAR WEST TEXAS TUESDAY…
.Approaching low pressure system moving on shore over the Pacific
Northwest will induce stronger southwest flow aloft across the
southwest this week. Subsequent tightening of the surface
pressure gradient will increase winds areawide. Strongest winds
are forecast to occur Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, but will
be picking up out west by Monday afternoon. Already present dry
air will 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.
…FIRE WEATHER WATCH IN EFFECT FROM WEDNESDAY MORNING THROUGH
WEDNESDAY EVENING FOR FOR FOR CRITICAL TO EXTREME FIRE WEATHER
CONDITIONS FOR SOUTHWESTERN NEW MEXICO AND FAR WEST TEXAS…
The National Weather Service in El Paso Tx/Santa Teresa has
issued a Fire Weather Watch for for dry fuels, strong winds, and
very dry conditions, which is in effect both Tuesday and
Wednesday.
* AFFECTED AREA…All of Southern New Mexico, including the Gila
National Forest, Lincoln National Forest, Southern New Mexico
Lowlands. Fire Weather zones 110, 111, 112, and 113. Also
included is Far West Texas, El Paso county, fire weather zones
055.
* TIMING…Both Tuesday and Wednesday between 11 am and 9 pm.
* WINDS…Southwest 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph.
* RELATIVE HUMIDITY…As low as 8 percent.
* TEMPERATURES…90-95.
* EXPERIMENTAL RFTI…6 to 7 or Critical to Extreme.
* IMPACTS…Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly.
Outdoor burning is not recommended.