Pueblo, CO – Southern Colorado is facing a dangerous combination of heat, wind, and extremely dry air this weekend, raising the risk for fast-moving wildfires.
The National Weather Service in Pueblo reports that Saturday will likely be the hottest day of the current March heat wave, with temperatures soaring into the 80s and 90s across much of the region. These near-record temperatures will be paired with critically low humidity levels, dropping as low as 4 percent in some areas.
A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 AM to 11 PM Saturday for much of southern Colorado, including areas around Pueblo, La Junta, Trinidad, and the San Luis Valley.
Winds are expected to gust up to 40 mph, creating ideal conditions for rapid fire growth. Any spark—whether from outdoor burning, equipment, or even dragging chains—could quickly lead to a fast-spreading wildfire.
Officials strongly urge residents to avoid any activities that could start a fire and to remain alert throughout the day.
These critical fire weather conditions come as part of a broader pattern of unseasonably warm and dry weather across the western United States.
