Denver, CO – Any spark across the southern Front Range or eastern Colorado plains could ignite a fast-moving wildfire by late morning as dry air and strengthening winds grip the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver and Boulder, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday for the southern Front Range foothills, Palmer Divide and eastern plains south of Interstate 76. A Fire Weather Watch continues from Tuesday morning through Tuesday evening, when even stronger winds may develop.
South winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 35 mph Monday will combine with relative humidity as low as 11 percent to create critical fire weather conditions. On Tuesday, west winds are expected to increase to 30 to 40 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 60 to 65 mph across Elbert, Douglas, Adams, Arapahoe and Washington counties.
Communities including Castle Rock, Parker, Elizabeth and areas east of Denver could see rapid fire spread if an ignition occurs. Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains and properly dispose of smoking materials.
Conditions may become extremely critical Tuesday afternoon if higher wind gusts materialize. Additional Red Flag Warnings are possible as forecasts are refined.
