Heat relief comes as winds elevate fire risk

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Gusty winds and much-needed cooler temperatures are moving through the Desert Southwest this weekend, bringing both relief and concern.

Winds have picked up across Yuma and Imperial Counties this Saturday, with some areas in Imperial Valley seeing gusts as high as 55 mph. These conditions, paired with extremely dry air, are prompting elevated fire danger through Saturday evening.

The Red Flag Warning for parts of eastern California and western Arizona will expire at 8 p.m., but fire crews remain on alert, especially in higher terrain areas.

Thankfully, a cooldown is underway. Sunday's forecast calls for high temperatures below 100 degrees across most of the region a rarity for this late in June.

The break from the heat won't last long, though. Temperatures are expected to climb again by late next week, potentially pushing back into the triple digits and above 110.

While monsoon moisture remains limited, meteorologists are watching for a possible return of storm chances in eastern Arizona starting Tuesday, though the Yuma area likely stays dry a bit longer.