Denver, CO – Much of Colorado is under a Red Flag Warning this afternoon as strong winds and low humidity heighten wildfire risks across the Front Range and southern counties, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The warnings, issued by NWS offices in Denver/Boulder and Pueblo, remain in effect until 5 p.m. MST Thursday, covering areas from Larimer and Weld Counties south through El Paso, Pueblo, Huerfano, and Las Animas Counties.
According to the NWS, winds up to 45 mph and humidity levels as low as 12–15% could cause fires to ignite and spread rapidly. Conditions are expected to remain volatile through late afternoon before easing as temperatures drop.
Fire Weather Zones include Jefferson, Boulder, Douglas, Arapahoe, Elbert, Pueblo, and Colorado Springs regions, encompassing the I-25 corridor and nearby foothills.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, secure loose objects, and refrain from using machinery that could create sparks. “A combination of strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior,” the NWS said in its advisory.
While no major wildfires have been reported as of Thursday morning, authorities stress that any small fire could quickly grow out of control under current conditions.
