A deepening trough of low pressure over the Pacific Northwest will bring increased southwest winds to Northern Arizona Wednesday and Thursday. Low Humidity and warm temperatures may produce Critical Fire Weather conditions for portions of Northern Arizona. A Fire Weather Watch has been issued for both Wednesday and Thursday afternoons.
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for today beginning at 11:00 a.m. this morning to 8:00 p.m. this evening for strong winds and low relative humidity. Southwest winds from 15 to 25 MPH with gusts 35 to 40 MPH and humidity levels at 4-8%.
A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or are imminent.
For those that may be planning on a hike this weekend please make sure to check the weather and temperatures before you set out. For the Grand Canyon temperatures will range from 101 to 111 in various areas. An Excessive Heat Warning will be in effect from Friday through Sunday. This warning is reserved for only the hottest days of the year and is issued when temperatures are expected to rise to dangerous levels.
The National Weather Service has advised that Day Hikers on Bright Angel Trail should descend no further than 1 1/2 miles. Physical activity is discouraged between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in that area. Hikers should attempt to be out of the canyon at Indian Garden or Bright Angel Campgrounds between these hours.
All hikers in any Arizona canyons, parks and trails should take the appropriate precautions. Make sure to pack adequate gear including a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, salty snacks, sufficient water and electrolyte mix. Doubling your calorie intake helps maintain your energy. Hike SMART!
Anyone that is intending to camp this weekend we would like to remind you that ALL areas of Navajo and Apache counties are under fire restrictions! The current forest conditions are extremely dry. Please check on the fire restrictions for your area to make sure what is allowed. Apache and Navajo restrictions are listed here or you can check restrictions outside of Northeast Arizona by visiting: www.firerestrictions.us!
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!