El Pasoans can expect to be slammed with windy weather and blowing dust — again.
Hazy skies, fallen trees and flying debris were spotted in the borderland on Tuesday, but winds may be even stronger on Wednesday, Feb. 18, according to the National Weather Service. Gusts could exceed 55 miles per hour in some areas, triggering a high wind warning in parts of El Paso, while other areas will be under a wind advisory.
Several parts of Southern New Mexico are also under the warning/advisory.
Strong winds bring dust into the El Paso area as seen from Scenic Drive on Feb. 17, 2026. Gusts up to 44 mph are expected across the region Tuesday, prompting a fire weather watch for El Paso and Southern New Mexico as dry air and high winds create dangerous fire conditions, according to the National Weather Service.
You can expect to see light winds on Wednesday morning, but soon after sunrise, windy weather will begin to increase, according to the National Weather Service. Strong gusts will arrive by late morning, peaking in the early afternoon, then slowly come down into the evening hours.
Both Thursday and Friday, Feb. 19-20, are looking breezy to windy, but not as strong as Wednesday’s winds, the National Weather Service noted.
Gusts could exceed more than 55 miles per hour in some areas, triggering a high wind warning in parts of El Paso, while other areas will be under a wind advisory.
High wind warning vs high wind advisory
A high wind warning is issued when sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheels and slow down. A high wind advisory is issued when strong winds are occurring and objects that are outdoors should be secured. You should also use caution when driving.
Red flag warning is also in effect
A red flag warning is also in effect in El Paso and Southern New Mexico starting at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 18. Outdoor burning is discouraged and any fires that do start will spread rapidly, the National Weather Service warned.
Tips for driving in the wind
Here are some tips for driving in windy weather, courtesy of the National Weather Service.
Maintain a safe distance from high profile vehicles
Keep a firm grip on the wheel with both hands
Keep a lookout for falling debris, fallen power lines and trees
Use caution on overpasses and bridges
Natassia Paloma may be reached at npaloma@gannett.com, @NatassiaPaloma on X, natassia_paloma on Instagram, and Natassia Paloma on Facebook.
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This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: High wind warning in effect for parts of El Paso on Wednesday