Eastern Colorado and Western Kansas – Critical fire weather conditions are expected Saturday afternoon across portions of eastern Colorado and western Kansas, prompting Red Flag Warnings due to strong winds and very low humidity.
According to the National Weather Service, Red Flag Warnings are in effect from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. MST Saturday for multiple fire weather zones across the High Plains.
In eastern Colorado, warnings include Yuma County and parts of northeast Weld, Logan, Washington, Phillips, and Sedgwick counties. Forecasts call for northwest winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph, and relative humidity as low as 13 to 14 percent.
Across western Kansas, the strongest impacts are expected near the Colorado border, where similar conditions will support rapid and unpredictable fire spread. Gusty northwest winds and dry air will peak during the early to mid-afternoon hours.
Farther north, adjacent High Plains areas may see even stronger gusts approaching 45 mph, underscoring the elevated regional fire risk.
Fire officials warn that any fires that start could spread rapidly and become difficult to control. Outdoor burning is not recommended, and residents are urged to avoid activities that could produce sparks, including driving or parking on dry grass.
Authorities also advise securing tow chains, properly maintaining vehicles, and never discarding lit cigarettes outdoors. Burn bans and local fire restrictions should be strictly followed.
Conditions are expected to improve Saturday evening as winds weaken and humidity slowly recovers.
