Red Flag Warnings Issued as Dangerous Winds and Dry Air Raise Wildfire Risk

Much of Tucson, Arizona, and the broader Southwestern United States is under a wind advisory for the new week, with winds up to 40 miles per hour causing potential hazards - especially as the weather heats up this April.

High winds and subsequent blowing dust could prove dangerous for drivers, according to National Weather Service in Tucson. The outlet reported that the Interstate 10 from Willcox to San Simon, near the Arizona-New Mexico state line will be of particular high risk on Sunday.

Dry thunderstorms later in the day will increase the chance of lightning strikes occurring, according to Tucson.com. This, in turn, puts the region in a higher risk category for wildfires for the forseeable.

Southwest Colorado, Northern New Mexico Preparing for Warmer Weather

Temperatures on Monday will be around 5-10 degrees above average in New Mexico for this time of year, according to the National Weather Service, to kickstart the working week. This shift will increase to 10-15 degrees above average for Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, predominantly located in eastern New Mexico.

Upper-level winds of around 40mph, combined with the dry climate, will also put both Colorado and New Mexico at greater fire risk. Locals are advised to keep an eye on climate developments and practice vehicle safety near vegetation in affected areas until the wildfire warning lifts.

Temperatures in Colorado in particular, are expected to go into the 80s from Monday, reaching up to 84 degrees Fahrenheit on Wednesday, leaving the state most vulnerable to potential fire risk. However, reports from The Weather Channel indicate this will likely drop mid-week, dropping into the mid 60s by Thursday.

Those seeing the most serious weather changes are advised to keep all the regular precautions for the first signs of Summer heat, including staying hydrated and applying sunscreen if you are in direct sunlight during the day, as well as accessing shelter when required, and checking on vulnerable friends, family, and neighbors.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published April 19, 2026 at 3:42 PM.