These winds could potentially be catastrophic for ongoing wildfires or any new ignitions — National Weather Service

 

A high wind warning will be in effect for all of Sandoval County from 9 a.m. Friday until midnight. 

Wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph are expected with scattered areas reaching 80 mph throughout most of New Mexico. 

The winds could knock down large tree limbs, utility poles and other structures while threatening to topple high profile vehicles. Damage to roof tops and other structures is possible along with widespread blowing dust.  

“These winds could potentially be catastrophic for ongoing wildfires or any new ignitions,” according to the National Weather Service of Albuquerque. 

Rio Rancho Fire and Rescue will be monitoring the weather. 

More than likely it will be a no burn day on Friday, Battalion Chief Ryan Floersheim said.

Many places that are dealing with wildfires, including Ruidoso (McBride Fire) and Valencia County (Simona Fire and Big Hole Fire), could see efforts hampered by the wind. 

Fire and Rescue sent a bulldozer team and two wildland firefighters to the Simona Fire (outside Los Lunas). This is just after they came back from the Big Hole Fire near Belen, he said.  

A red flag warning will also be in effect from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday. 

This warning is issued when the relative humidity of 15 percent or less is combined with sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, of 25 mph or over. Both conditions must occur simultaneously for at least 3 hours in a 12-hour period.

To check on the City of Rio Rancho’s burn status, call 505-891-7268.