Denver, CO – Wind gusts reaching 55 mph are sweeping across the Colorado plains this morning, combining with humidity as low as 15 percent to create explosive wildfire conditions through 6 p.m. MST. Any spark could ignite fast-moving grassfires capable of crossing roads in minutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Denver/Boulder, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect for much of the plains, including Larimer, Boulder, Jefferson, Douglas, Denver, Adams, Arapahoe, Weld, Morgan, Logan, Washington, Sedgwick and Phillips counties. Northwest winds will range from 25 to 35 mph today, with stronger gusts, while critically dry air fuels rapid fire growth.
Communities from Fort Collins and Greeley south through Denver and east toward Sterling and Akron face the highest risk this afternoon. Blowing dust and strong crosswinds may also impact travel along I-25, I-76 and I-70. Fire Weather Zones 238 through 251 remain under heightened alert.
A Fire Weather Watch is also in place from Thursday morning through Thursday afternoon, when northwest winds could gust to 40 mph with continued low humidity.
Avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains, and delay any activities that could produce sparks. Additional Red Flag Warnings may be issued if Thursday’s conditions intensify.
