Persistent drought and gusty winds will lead to ongoing fire danger concerns across the desert Southwest into the weekend. Red flags warnings and fire weather watches are in effect. Critical fire danger is expected to continue in this part of the country into next week.

The rest of today, Sunday, we can expect critical fire weather conditions with high winds and low relative humidity in the forecast.

Because of gusty winds and ongoing dry conditions we continue to deal with high fire danger the end of this weekend and into the work week. Fire weather alerts are in effect in Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada over the two days. Winds will be strongest across the higher terrain and alerts will likely be expanding into Colorado’s Front Range.

Monday, the fire weather conditions remain as wind gusts are forecast to get even a bit higher, up to 45 mph gusts will be likely.

Wind alerts have been issued across the desert Southwest due to the gusty winds anticipated this weekend.

The contributing factors into a high fire danger include the dry soils and vegetation. The vegetation has not “greened up” yet after the winter months, resulting in dry fuels.

In order to prevent fires from spreading rapidly, we need *your* help! Only you can prevent the next wildfire!

Avoid any outdoor burning on days with elevated fire conditions. Stayed tuned to WeatherNation for the latest conditions.