Colorado Springs, Colorado – Wind gusts up to 50 mph could turn any spark into a fast-moving grassfire by late morning across southern El Paso County, prompting urgent fire restrictions through early evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday for southern El Paso County, including Colorado Springs and Fort Carson. West winds will increase to 25 to 35 mph with gusts reaching 50 mph, while relative humidity drops as low as 12 percent. A Fire Weather Watch remains in effect from Thursday morning through Thursday evening as another round of dry, breezy conditions develops.
The highest risk areas include open spaces south and east of downtown Colorado Springs, along Highway 115, Interstate 25 near Fort Carson and rural grasslands bordering Pueblo County. Strong crosswinds could also impact high-profile vehicles during the afternoon commute.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, delay welding or grinding projects and secure trailer chains to prevent roadside sparks. Properly dispose of cigarettes and keep vehicles off dry grass.
Winds ease after sunset Wednesday, but fire danger could quickly return Thursday if humidity remains critically low. Additional warnings may be issued as conditions evolve.
