Extreme Fire Danger Warnings Issued in New Mexico Amid High Winds and Drought

On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the National Weather Service's Storm Prediction Center issued warnings of extreme fire danger across much of New Mexico, citing a combination of high winds, low humidity, and dry vegetation as catalysts for potential fast-moving wildfires.

The elevated wildfire risk encompasses central and southern New Mexico, including major cities such as Albuquerque and Santa Fe, and extends into far West Texas, including El Paso. Meteorologist Bob Oravec noted that such conditions are typical for high plains fire weather, allowing any ignition to spread rapidly.

On April 27, 2025, Albuquerque experienced a high temperature of approximately 28.3°C (82.9°F), with a low of 12.2°C (54°F). Santa Fe recorded a high of 21.5°C (70.7°F) and a low of 9.3°C (48.7°F). El Paso saw temperatures ranging from a low of 14.4°C (57.9°F) to a high of 34.4°C (93.9°F). These above-average temperatures, combined with low humidity levels, contributed to the heightened fire risk.

In response to these conditions, Bernalillo County Fire Rescue prepared for a stretch of high wind days, emphasizing the increased likelihood of fires starting and spreading quickly due to dry brush and the driest winter season on record in Albuquerque. Fire officials urged the community to avoid outdoor burning and to secure loose items that could become fire hazards due to the strong winds.

Bernalillo County Fire Rescue (BCFR) was founded in 1958 as a single station with 16 original volunteers. Since then, it has grown into a 12-district professional fire department, providing 24-hour service to the community with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. It is now the second-largest career fire department in the state of New Mexico.

In September 2024, the Bernalillo County Commission accepted a $262,000 grant from the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration. This grant was allocated to add two firefighter/EMT positions to BCFR, aiming to strengthen the department's capacity to respond to emergencies, including wildfires. Fire Chief Greg Perez expressed gratitude for the support from state lawmakers, noting that the grant allows the department to build a stronger team without immediately impacting the existing budget.

New Mexico has a history of significant wildfires. In 2022, the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire became the largest wildfire in the state's history, burning over 341,000 acres. The fire led to President Biden declaring a major disaster in the state and the introduction of the Hermits Peak Fire Assistance Act to compensate those affected.

As of April 2025, over 73% of New Mexico is experiencing at least moderate drought conditions, with parts of central and western Texas, along with southern New Mexico, enduring exceptional drought. The National Interagency Fire Center has identified significant wildland fire potential in much of central and western Texas and Oklahoma, eastern and southern New Mexico, and southeastern Arizona.

The heightened fire risk poses significant social and economic challenges. Communities in the affected areas face potential evacuations, property damage, and health risks due to smoke inhalation. Economically, wildfires can lead to substantial costs in firefighting efforts, infrastructure damage, and loss of business. The agricultural sector may also suffer due to the destruction of crops and grazing lands.

Residents in the affected areas are advised to remain vigilant, adhere to local fire restrictions, and take necessary precautions to prevent potential fire outbreaks. This includes avoiding outdoor burning, securing loose items that could become fire hazards due to strong winds, and staying informed through local weather updates.

The current extreme fire danger underscores the importance of community preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines to mitigate the risks associated with wildfires.