Due to extreme weather conditions such as a combination of high winds, low humidity and elevated temperatures that can increase wildfire risk, residents of New Mexico are urged to take precautionary measures.
Local experts recommend avoiding outdoor burning and checking for ignited fires that could spread quickly. You should also remain in the lower levels of your home during windstorms and avoid windows. Watching for falling debris and tree limbs is also a potential risk to keep in mind.
Several severe weather alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) indicate a red flag and a high wind warning for several regions, including Bernalillo County, the Albuquerque Metro Area, and multiple mountain ranges.
- High Wind Warning: On Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., west winds of 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 65 mph are expected. These winds could take down trees and power lines, cause power outages, and make travel dangerous. Caution is recommended, especially when traveling along I-25 near Santa Fe.
- Red Flag Warning: On Monday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. These southwest winds are expected to reach 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph for Monday and 65 mph for Tuesday. This weather can also bring alarmingly low humidity levels: 5-11% for Monday and 9-20% for Tuesday. It is important to note that this increases fire risk in the area.
Authorities warn that conditions are ideal for rapidly spreading wildfires. Residents are advised to stay informed through official NWS alerts and take immediate action to safeguard their homes and families.
Some of the most important precautionary measures for residents to take are:
- Securing outdoor objects that may become airborne
- Preparing for potential power outages
- Exercising caution while driving, especially in areas prone to dust and debris
Given this urgency, the East Mountain Interagency Fire Protection Association (EMIFPA) will host a new wildfire awareness session, “Really, Are You Ready?” on March 22, from 9 a.m. to noon at Los Vecinos Community Center in Tijeras.
As part of their Spring series, EMIFPA will discuss topics such as:
- PNM’s Fire Mitigation Plan (including the Public Safety Power Shutoff Program)
- The Homeowner’s Insurance Changes presented by Acuity Insurance and Evacuation
- Emergency Notifications with Jerome Macdonald from NM-DHSEM on evacuation strategies and emergency notifications
This event’s efforts and organization are solely to help residents prepare as best as possible for possible power shutdowns during high-fire-risk periods, understand changes in insurance rates and coverage and improve their awareness of their county’s emergency communication systems.
Those unable to attend in person can RSVP for a virtual Zoom session by contacting EMWPA.2023@gmail.com.