ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Expect a warm, dry and breezy day Wednesday with afternoon highs climbing into the 70s. Winds will pick up during the afternoon and continue into the evening, making conditions feel much drier and more blustery than earlier in the day.

Widespread gusts of 20 to 30 mph are likely across the area, and a few locales could see stronger gusts between 40 and 55 mph. Similar wind patterns are forecast for Thursday. These crosswinds will create difficult driving conditions for high-profile vehicles such as trucks, RVs and trailers.

The primary concern with this pattern is elevated to critical fire weather danger. Most of New Mexico is expected to be under Red Flag Warnings and Fire Weather Watches during the afternoon and evening hours on both days. The Albuquerque metro area has been removed from an earlier Fire Weather Watch and is not included in Wednesday’s Red Flag Warning, but nearby zones remain threatened.

Residents should remain vigilant about fire safety: avoid outdoor burning, secure loose equipment that could spark, don’t park vehicles on dry grass, and report any signs of smoke immediately. With gusty winds and dry fuels, any new ignition can spread rapidly.

Meteorologists are monitoring the situation closely; check local forecasts, watches and warnings frequently and follow guidance from local emergency officials. Watching the forecast video above and signing up for weather alerts from your preferred local provider will help you stay informed as conditions evolve.