Grand Junction, Colo. – A dangerous stretch of fire weather is unfolding across Colorado, Utah, Nevada, Arizona, and parts of Washington, with Red Flag Warnings and Watches extending through Saturday due to gusty winds, bone-dry air, and highly flammable fuels.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon to 8 p.m. Thursday across western Colorado and eastern Utah, including the Little Snake, Paradox Valley, and Colorado River Basins. Winds could gust up to 35 mph with relative humidity as low as 3%, creating explosive fire conditions. Fire Weather Watches are also posted for Friday and Saturday, with gusts increasing to 50 mph.
Southern Nevada and northwest Arizona will face critical fire weather from Thursday morning through Friday night, per the NWS Las Vegas. Clark, Lincoln, and Nye Counties will see gusts topping 35 mph with humidity under 10%.
In northern Nevada, from Reno to Elko, sustained southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph and humidity as low as 5% are expected Thursday and Friday. The NWS warns fires may grow rapidly, especially in wind-prone valleys.
Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning, secure flammable materials, and be ready to evacuate if wildfires ignite. This multi-day event could become one of the season’s most dangerous yet.
Red Flag Warnings remain in effect into Friday night, with additional alerts likely as conditions worsen.
