The fire danger in and around New Mexico will be high today as a storm movesthrough the West. The storm redeveloping to the lee of central Rockies willexpand the serious fire danger into western and central Texas on Thursday.Strong winds howling around the storm are the main culprit for theheightened fire threat. The winds gusting up to 50 mph could rapidly spread anynew or existing wildfire. Tinder-dry vegetation and extremely low humidity willmake the region more susceptible for out-of-control blazes.

Residents are urged to use extreme caution when dealing with sparks or fires.

Smokers should never throw cigarette butts out the windows of theirvehicles.

The winds also pose other problems for travelers. Flight delays are likely.

Motorists should be prepared for visibility to become poor in blowing dust. Thewinds could overturn or steer high-profile vehicles off roadways.

Story by AccuWeather.com Senior Meteorologist Kristina Pydynowski