Denver, Colo. – Wildfire risk is spiking across Colorado today as Red Flag Warnings stretch from the San Luis Valley to the Book Cliffs, with dangerously dry and windy conditions expected to fuel rapid fire spread through Thursday evening.
According to the National Weather Service, Red Flag Warnings are in effect from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. for South Park and the Upper Arkansas River Valley, while alerts across western Colorado, including Gunnison, Paradox Valley, and the Colorado River Basin, last from noon to 8 p.m. Winds could gust up to 35 mph, with humidity levels dipping as low as 6%.
In affected areas such as Alamosa, Creede, Lake County, and Mesa County, officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, grilling, or using tools that could spark. Any fire that starts could spread uncontrollably under these conditions.
Communities near Wolf Creek Pass, Grand Junction, and South Fork are especially vulnerable due to dry fuels and ongoing drought. Fire crews are on standby as conditions resemble peak fire season patterns seen in past July outbreaks.
Residents should monitor local alerts and stay prepared. Red Flag Warnings remain in effect until late tonight, and additional advisories may follow if conditions persist.
