Walsenburg, Colorado – Any spark could turn into a fast-moving wildfire across southern Colorado this afternoon as humidity drops to 10 percent and wind gusts hit 30 mph before 5 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, a Red Flag Warning remains in effect until 5 p.m. Tuesday for Huerfano County and both western and eastern Las Animas County, including Walsenburg, Trinidad, Thatcher and the Pinon Canyon area. Northwest winds of 15 to 20 mph, combined with critically dry air, are creating conditions where fires can ignite and spread rapidly.
The threat intensifies again Thursday. A Fire Weather Watch is in place from Thursday morning through Thursday evening, when southwest winds are expected to increase to 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph. Relative humidity could plunge as low as 5 percent, dramatically increasing the risk of extreme fire behavior.
Open burning is strongly discouraged. Residents should avoid dragging chains, properly dispose of cigarettes and secure trailer safety chains. Ranchers and landowners should postpone any activities that could generate sparks.
Critical fire conditions ease after sunset today but redevelop Thursday. Additional Red Flag Warnings are likely if wind speeds and humidity trends continue.
