FIRST ALERT FORECAST: Heat still a threat in Desert Southwest, winds bring new fire concerns

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - After days of intense heat, relief is slowly moving into the Desert Southwest, but not without new risks.

An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect through Friday evening for Yuma and Imperial Counties, with highs ranging from 103 to 111 degrees. But a Pacific storm system is now sliding into the region, bringing breezy to windy conditions that could fuel fire danger, especially in open desert areas.

Wind gusts between 20 and 30 mph are expected Friday evening into Saturday across Yuma and most of Imperial County. Farther west, in the southwest corner of Imperial County, gusts may exceed 40 mph, triggering a Wind Advisory through Saturday night.

While the extra wind will help knock temperatures down slightly through the weekend, it will also combine with single-digit humidity and dry fuels to raise fire weather concerns, particularly in exposed areas and near mountain foothills.

Temperatures will continue to cool into next week, with Sunday expected to be the coolest day, dipping into the upper 90s to low 100s. While it's not a full monsoon push just yet, forecasters say this pattern will keep conditions drier and windier for several more days.

Locals are urged to stay alert for changing fire conditions, avoid outdoor flames or sparks, and continue to follow heat safety precautions as we head into the weekend.