Akron, Colorado – A prolonged stretch of dangerous fire weather will grip the eastern Colorado Plains beginning Sunday, with extreme conditions possible by Tuesday as winds intensify.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. MST Sunday for Washington County and northern Lincoln County, including areas below 6,000 feet in north and northeast Elbert County. Southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph will combine with humidity as low as 11 percent, creating conditions favorable for rapid fire spread.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder, the threat will continue beyond Sunday. A Fire Weather Watch remains in effect from Monday morning through Monday afternoon, when similar southwest winds and very dry air redevelop. Another Fire Weather Watch is posted from Tuesday morning through Tuesday evening as a stronger system brings west winds of 30 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph.
The strongest winds Tuesday could lead to extreme fire behavior across open rangeland and agricultural areas near Akron, Limon and surrounding communities. A wind shift behind passing fronts may cause erratic fire movement, increasing danger for responders and residents.
Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged. Avoid parking vehicles on dry grass, secure trailer chains and delay welding or grinding projects. Farmers and ranchers should check equipment before use and have water sources readily available.
Travelers along Interstate 70, U.S. 36 and Colorado Highway 63 should remain alert for blowing dust and reduced visibility if fires ignite. According to state and local emergency managers, any spark could quickly grow out of control under these conditions.
