Pueblo, CO — Strong winds and critically low humidity levels will heighten wildfire risk across southern Colorado Friday afternoon, prompting a Red Flag Warning for several counties, including San Luis Valley, Fremont, Pueblo, Huerfano, and Las Animas.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, the warning is in effect from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. MDT Friday, replacing a previously issued Fire Weather Watch. Southwest winds ranging from 15 to 25 mph, with gusts reaching 40 mph, combined with relative humidity as low as 9 percent, are expected to create hazardous fire conditions.
The affected areas include key population centers such as Canon City, Alamosa, Del Norte, Fort Garland, Pueblo, Walsenburg, and Trinidad. Officials warn that any outdoor fires could start easily and spread rapidly due to erratic wind behavior and dry conditions.
Residents are urged to avoid open flames, secure outdoor equipment that could spark, and stay informed through local alerts. Fire departments may impose burn bans or activity restrictions throughout the region.
The warning highlights the start of Colorado’s spring fire season, a period known for dry winds and increased wildfire activity across the state’s southern plains and valleys.
