Grand Junction, Colo. – Gusty winds and bone-dry air have put much of western Colorado on high alert as Red Flag Warnings remain in effect for the Grand Junction, Durango, Rifle, and Montrose areas until 8 p.m. Saturday, with a Fire Weather Watch to follow Sunday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, fire weather zones 203, 205, 207, and 292—including the Lower Colorado River, Colorado River Headwaters, Southwest Colorado, and North Fork areas—are facing critical conditions below 7,000 feet. Winds of 15 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph, combined with relative humidity as low as 8 percent, mean any spark could trigger fast-moving wildfires.
Communities in Mesa, Garfield, Delta, and Montrose counties should avoid all outdoor burning, secure equipment that could create sparks, and have evacuation plans ready. Drivers along I-70 near Grand Junction and US-550 near Durango should watch for sudden smoke or road closures. Residents are urged to charge devices, prepare emergency kits, and monitor local alerts for the latest updates.
The Red Flag Warning expires at 8 p.m. Saturday, but a Fire Weather Watch is in place for Sunday afternoon through evening. Additional advisories may follow if dangerous fire weather persists.
