There are again some lingering clouds over the area this morning, however, today is forecast to be drier. Showers and thunderstorms are unlikely to form in the area this afternoon. Winds will be breezy out of the northeast today with winds expected to be around 10-15 mph gusting 25 mph. With gusty winds and dry conditions, the biggest threat will be new starts to the fire.

As long as there aren’t any significant new starts to the Backbone fire, smoke impacts should be minimal. There will continue to be potential light to moderate impacts to the nearby communities, but most of the smoke will be associated with the Rafael wildfire. Communities in the Verde Valley and generally southwest of the Rafael fire are expected to see the heavier smoke impacts.

Winds will continue to be breezy out of the northeast through tomorrow morning before becoming more light and variable tomorrow afternoon. Thunderstorm chances will return to the area tomorrow afternoon which could cause gusty winds.