Authorities are warning that much of the U.S. Southwest will see critical fire conditions this weekend
Carson Hot Shots Henry Hornberger, left, and Tyler Freeman cut up a hollow tree that was burning on the inside, Monday May 23, 2022, as they and their co-workers work on hot spots from the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire in the Carson National Forest west of Chacon, N.M.
The return of return of drier and warmer weather with stronger winds posed a threat of increased fire activity over the Memorial Day weekend, prompting officials to urge the public to secure vehicle chains and to be careful with possible fire sources. The strong winds could fan flames and cause the fire to jump containment lines and race forward, said John Chest, a fire operations manager.