Denver, Colorado – Any spark could turn into a fast-moving wildfire across eastern Colorado by late Wednesday morning as powerful winds and dry air slam the region during peak daytime hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday for much of the eastern plains, including Larimer County below 6,000 feet, Boulder and Jefferson counties below 6,000 feet, Denver, Adams, Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert, Weld, Morgan, Logan, Washington, Sedgwick and Phillips counties.
West winds will increase to 25 to 35 mph with gusts reaching 50 mph. Relative humidity could drop as low as 15 percent during the afternoon. That combination sharply raises the risk for rapid fire growth, especially along open grasslands and agricultural areas east of Interstate 25.
Communities from Greeley and Fort Morgan to Limon, Sterling and Akron face the highest concern. Strong crosswinds may also impact high-profile vehicles along I-76, I-70 east of Denver and Highway 85. Fire agencies urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, delay welding or equipment use, and properly dispose of cigarettes.
The most volatile window will stretch from late morning through sunset Wednesday. Additional advisories could be issued if conditions intensify or extend into Thursday.
