High winds, increased fire danger expected for Middle Rio Grande Valley

High winds and an increase in fire danger are expected for the Middle Rio Grande Valley, including Rio Rancho, beginning at noon Tuesday and lasting into the evening.

The National Weather Service reported that high wind and red flag warnings are expected from noon to 9 p.m.

Winds coming from the west are expected to be anywhere from 30-60 miles per hour, NWS said on its website. The gusts could create dust, increasing poor air quality and the risk of low visibility of one half mile or less, NWS said. Downed trees and power lines, with potential power outages, are possible. Possible crosswinds could make it difficult for truck drivers, the agency said.

A red flag warning, indicating an increased risk of fire, is in effect for central and eastern portions of the state. Warm temperatures, very low humidity and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger, the NWS said. "Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly," and outdoor burning is not recommended, the agency said.

The NWS's latest advisory comes two weeks after it sent out a wind warning at around 1:20 p.m. on March 18, saying the storm would last until 4:15 p.m.