Red Flag Warning: High Wind, Fire, Pollution Risk

PHOENIX — The National Weather Service is warning Phoenix area residents of a red flag warning, meaning fires will start easily and spread fast. The risk comes from low humidity, high temperatures and high wind.

Phoenix can expect winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph, according to the warning. Those high winds, alongside temperatures in the mid-80's and humidity below 10 percent, make for fire-friendly conditions.

"Fuels are very dry and fire danger is very high to extreme. These conditions combined with low relative humidity and strong winds will lead to widespread hazardous fire weather conditions," the National Weather Service warned.

The red flag warning will last through Friday.

The National Weather Service also issued an air quality alert, with the high winds kicking up sand and dusts, spreading it throughout the air. They warn of "coarse particulate matter," which can aggravate heart and lung disease conditions, especially in older adults, children and those with asthma. The NWS recommends a decrease in physical activity.

"Consolidate your travel, stabilize loose soils, slow down or avoid travel on dirt roads, reduce or eliminate fireplace use, and avoid using gas-powered lawn equipment," the NWS warns.

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