Denver, Colorado – Extremely critical fire weather conditions are expected across northeastern Colorado and portions of the central High Plains Tuesday, with strong winds and very low humidity creating dangerous wildfire potential.
According to the NOAA Storm Prediction Center, sustained winds of 30 to 40 mph combined with relative humidity values between 10 and 15 percent will support rapid and potentially uncontrollable fire spread. The most dangerous conditions are forecast from late morning through early evening, with peak intensity during the late afternoon.
The highest risk area includes Denver, Fort Collins, Greeley and areas along the Interstate 25 corridor, extending east toward the Nebraska state line. Portions of western Nebraska and extreme northwest Kansas are also included in the extremely critical zone.
Officials described the setup as a “particularly dangerous situation,” noting that dry fuels across the region will allow fires to spread quickly once ignited. Grassland fire spread rates may accelerate rapidly under sustained wind gusts.
Travelers along I-25, US-85 and I-76 should remain alert for sudden smoke plumes or reduced visibility near open fields. Outdoor equipment, vehicles parked on dry grass and improperly extinguished cigarettes could spark fast-moving fires.
Residents are urged to avoid activities that could create ignition sources and to follow guidance from local emergency officials.
Outdoor workers, ranchers and commuters may face rapidly changing conditions Tuesday afternoon as winds strengthen and humidity drops.
Conditions are expected to ease after sunset as temperatures cool and winds diminish.
