Critical Fire Risk in West Texas, New Mexico

news image
Top Stories
27 Apr 2024 9:00 PM

A critical fire risk is in place for west Texas, eastern Colorado, and New Mexico through the weekend as gusty winds and dry grasses and low humidity create a dangerous situation. If a spark were to start, these are the conditions where rapid, life-threatening fire growth would be possible. Humidity values will be in the teens, meaning there will be no moisture in our atmosphere to help taper fire growth.

Gusty winds are anticipated on Sunday, especially through New Mexico and West Texas. Winds could gust up to 40 mph unlike Saturday where gusts reached near 60s mph in Southern New Mexico. If a flame starts, it will move as quickly as the winds, at about 40 mph. We can't stress enough how critical this weekend's fire risk is.

Drought conditions are extreme and exceptional for southern New Mexico, while most of the region is experiencing moderate drought. Northern New Mexico and SW Texas are experiencing pockets of severe drought (level 3 out of 5).

All Weather News
More
Top Weather Events of 2025

Top Weather Events of 2025

As 2025 wraps up, we're taking a look back at

31 Dec 2026 9:50 PM
Rounds of Rain & Snow Returns to California

Rounds of Rain & Snow Returns to California

CALIFORNIA - After a deluge of moisture occur

31 Dec 2026 9:47 PM
More Lake Effect Snow Across the Great Lakes

More Lake Effect Snow Across the Great Lakes

WHAT TO EXPECTAs we are coming off the heels

31 Dec 2026 9:46 PM
Chilly Air Across the Country

Chilly Air Across the Country

Cold blasts and unseasonable warmth have been

31 Dec 2026 9:45 PM
Weather for the Ball Drop: What to Expect as 2026 Begins

Weather for the Ball Drop: What to Expect as 2026 Begins

As we say goodbye to 2025 and ring in 2026, m

31 Dec 2026 9:45 PM
Tornadoes Confirmed In Illinois From Sunday

Tornadoes Confirmed In Illinois From Sunday

TAZEWELL COUNTY, IL - On December 28th, a st

30 Dec 2026 5:50 PM
Blizzard Conditions In the Upper Midwest, Portions of I-35 Shutdown

Blizzard Conditions In the Upper Midwest, Portions of I-35 Shutdown

UPPER MIDWEST - Blizzard alerts are in place

29 Dec 2026 12:20 PM