Red flag warning in effect across metro Phoenix due to high winds

PHOENIX — A red flag warning was in effect across metro Phoenix and most parts of the state Wednesday due to the threat of high winds leading to fire concerns and blowing dust.

The warning for Maricopa and Pinal counties will be in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., according to the National Weather Service in Phoenix.

Gusts of up to 35 mph could be widespread and locally could reach 45 mph.

A Red Flag Warning in effect for much of AZ today. Here are some tips if you encounter a wildfire. #azwx @NWSFlagstaff @NWSTucson @NWSVegas pic.twitter.com/pWp7dYAG0P

— NWS Phoenix (@NWSPhoenix) April 21, 2021

Relative humidity levels of less than 10% in the afternoon will likely result in increased fire danger.

“We have some serious fire weather in store for today and it’s important that folks avoid any type of outdoor activity that involves fire today,” Arizona Forestry and Fire Management spokeswoman Tiffany Davila told KTAR News 92.3 FM on Wednesday.

“We already have dry conditions across the state, so throw in those high winds and relative humidity and we basically have a recipe for critical fire weather.”

Those winds could result in blowing dust across the two metro Phoenix counties.

The Arizona Department of Transportation is advising drivers to be cautious on roadways, especially on Interstate 10 between Phoenix and Tucson.

The high temperature in Phoenix was supposed to reach 90 degrees on Wednesday before dipping into the 60s later in the evening.

KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Jim Cross contributed to this report.

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