El Paso woke up to crystal-clear skies on Wednesday, May 6, with the airport clocking in a comfortable 61°F early this morning. By afternoon, temperatures are expected to climb into the upper 70s, while winds pick up along the mesa and across open stretches of I-10. No watches or warnings are in effect for El Paso or Hudspeth counties this morning, as a warmer, drier pattern settles in ahead of a more intense heat spike this weekend.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
West winds will steadily strengthen through the day, generally running 6 to 13 mph with gusts up to around 22 to 25 mph in exposed spots and on overpasses, which can make the evening commute feel pretty blustery. It is a good day to secure loose patio furniture and take extra care with high-profile vehicles on open highway stretches. The National Weather Service calls out these gusty west winds, pegs today's high near 78°F, and continues to show no active watches or warnings for El Paso and Hudspeth counties.
Dry Air And Elevated Fire Weather
Relative humidity is expected to dip into the teens this afternoon, raising elevated fire-weather concerns where those gusty winds line up with dry grasses and brush. Recent showers earlier in the month helped knock back fuel dryness in some neighborhoods, but the drying trend later this week could allow fire danger to creep back in spots, so it is best to skip outdoor burning when winds are gusty. For background on the region's drying pattern and the earlier outlook, see our earlier windy forecast, as per Hoodline.
Weekend Warm-Up
Temperatures jump more sharply into the weekend as a building ridge pushes lows into the lower 90s on Saturday and Sunday, with mid-90s possible early next week. That will feel noticeably hotter than this week, so planning outdoor time for the morning or evening hours will be the more comfortable move. The National Weather Service keeps this warm spell running into next week.
Basic summer-style precautions already apply: stay hydrated, keep pets in the shade with plenty of water, and avoid heavy exertion under the peak afternoon sun. Tie down lightweight items before those gusty afternoons arrive, and check the latest local forecast if you are heading outside for work or play.
