Grand Junction, Colo. – Outdoor burns could turn dangerous within minutes Sunday afternoon as a Red Flag Warning blankets western Colorado and eastern Utah through 8 p.m. due to gusty winds, dry air and critically dry fuels.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, wind gusts could reach up to 35 mph with humidity dropping as low as 6% in fire-prone zones including the Paradox Valley, Book Cliffs, and Colorado River Basin. Similar fire weather conditions are in place for the Routt and North Fork areas of Colorado, as well as Utah’s Eastern Uinta Basin.
The alert affects multiple fire zones including Little Snake, White River, Lower Colorado River, and Colorado River Headwaters below 8,000 feet. Southwest winds of 10–20 mph will combine with extreme dryness, heightening the risk of rapidly spreading wildfires.
Residents in areas like Craig, Rifle, Meeker, and Vernal should avoid outdoor burning, secure spark-producing equipment, and remain vigilant. Emergency officials warn that even a small flame could ignite fast-moving fires under today’s conditions.
Red Flag Warnings remain in effect until 8 p.m. and could be reissued if dry and windy conditions persist into Monday.
