Grand Junction, Colorado – Dry air, gusty winds, and above-normal heat are raising wildfire concerns across northern Colorado on Friday, with a Red Flag Warning in effect from noon to 7 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, relative humidity levels could drop as low as 7%, while wind gusts may reach 30 mph, especially across the northern valleys, central mountains, and foothills. Though thunderstorms remain possible, the overall storm coverage will be lighter than earlier this week.
The San Juan Mountains and central high terrain have the best chance of isolated showers and storms, but most of the state will remain dangerously dry. Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, properly dispose of cigarettes, and delay any spark-producing equipment use until conditions improve.
High fire danger is being driven by a combination of dry fuels, strong winds, and unusually warm temperatures. These conditions are typical during late summer but remain especially hazardous due to ongoing drought stress in parts of western Colorado.
The Red Flag Warning remains in place until 7 p.m. Friday, and more advisories could follow if conditions persist into the weekend.
