Denver, CO – A Red Flag Warning remains in effect across multiple states, including Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas, as dangerous fire weather conditions develop Thursday. Strong winds, low humidity, and dry fuels will create an elevated wildfire risk across the Southwest and Southern Plains.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), warnings are in place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. MST for Eastern Las Animas County, Prowers County, and Baca County in Colorado. Southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching up to 50 mph, combined with relative humidity as low as 15 percent, could lead to rapid fire spread.
In Texas and New Mexico, Red Flag Warnings will be active from noon to 7 p.m. MST. Winds are expected to be even stronger in these regions, with sustained speeds of 25 to 45 mph and gusts as high as 65 mph. The affected areas include El Paso and Hudspeth counties in Texas, as well as the Southwest Deserts and Lowlands, Capitan, and Sacramento Mountains in New Mexico.
The Texas Panhandle, West Texas, and Southwest Kansas will also experience critical fire weather conditions Thursday. Areas such as Amarillo, Lubbock, and Dodge City are forecast to see winds of 25 to 35 mph, with humidity dropping as low as 10 percent.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and activities that generate sparks. Any fires that develop will spread quickly due to the extreme conditions. Residents should have emergency plans in place and remain vigilant for any updates from local authorities.
For more information, visit the National Weather Service website at www.weather.gov.
