Red Flag Warning Issued for Northeast Highlands, New Mexico Through Monday Evening
Critical fire weather conditions are expected in the Northeast Highlands on Monday, with strong winds and low humidity prompting a Red Flag Warning from the National Weather Service.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Albuquerque has issued a Red Flag Warning for the Northeast Highlands. This alert replaces the previous Fire Weather Watch as critical fire weather conditions are now expected to develop.
Affected Areas
The warning specifically impacts the Northeast Highlands (Zone 123). The affected geographic area is located along and east of the I-25 corridor, including the communities of Ribera, Las Vegas, and Raton.
What You Should Do
Outdoor burning is not recommended during this period. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly due to the combination of wind and low humidity. Residents should advise appropriate officials or fire crews in the field of this warning and remain vigilant.
Expected Conditions
Critical conditions will be driven by the following factors:
- 20 Foot Winds: Southwest winds between 20 to 25 mph, with gusts reaching up to 35 mph.
- Relative Humidity: Minimum humidity values are expected to fall between 9 and 14 percent.
- Fire Behavior: Any fire that starts will have the potential to spread rapidly.
Timeline
The Red Flag Warning is effective from 11:00 AM MST on Monday, March 2, 2026, and is scheduled to expire at 7:00 PM MST the same day.
Source: NOAA Official Notice