The National Weather Service on Saturday issued a red-flag warning for northeastern and southeastern areas of Arizona because of low humidity, gusty winds and a high fire danger.

Northeastern Arizona areas likely to be most impacted include Chinle Valley, Chuska Mountains, Defiance Plateau, Northeast Plateaus and Mesas and the Little Colorado River Valley in Navajo, Apache and Coconino counties. Drivers traveling north on Interstate 17 toward Flagstaff should expect winds of 15 to 25 mph earlier in the day, and picking up to about 45 mph in the afternoon, according to the National Weather Service.

Southeastern Arizona areas likely to be impacted include areas east of Tucson. Blowing dust is also possible, particularly along Interstate 10 near San Simon. The winds are coming from the southwest in the Tucson area, and relative humidity is ranging from 8 to 13 percent.

A red-flag warning means critical fire and weather conditions are possible or occurring due to strong winds and low humidity. Drivers should watch for windy conditions. Outdoor burning in these areas is strongly discouraged, as the weather conditions can cause fires to spread rapidly.

The warning remains in effect until 7 p.m. Saturday.

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