Trinidad, Colo. – A single spark could race across southern Colorado grasslands Tuesday afternoon as dry air and gusty winds combine to heighten wildfire danger.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday for Huerfano County and both western and eastern Las Animas counties, including Walsenburg, Trinidad, Thatcher and the Pinon Canyon area. West winds will increase to 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph, while relative humidity drops as low as 10 percent.
The warning covers Fire Weather Zones 229, 230 and 233, where dry fuels and warming temperatures will support rapid fire growth. Open rangeland along Interstate 25 and Highway 160 is especially vulnerable during peak heating between noon and 4 p.m.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, delay welding or equipment use that produces sparks, and properly secure trailer chains. Even routine agricultural work could ignite fast-moving flames under these conditions.
Farther north, Fremont County’s Red Flag Warning expired at 7 p.m. Monday as humidity levels improved and winds eased.
Fire danger will diminish after 5 p.m. Tuesday as winds weaken, but any fire that starts during peak conditions could stretch resources. Additional advisories remain possible if dry and breezy weather continues later this week.
