Grand Junction, CO – Critical fire weather conditions are building across northwest Colorado today, with strong winds and extremely dry fuels creating a high risk for fast-moving wildfires through 9 p.m. Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from noon through the evening for areas including Grand Junction, Craig, Meeker, and Rangely. West winds are expected to gust up to 45 mph, while humidity levels remain low, allowing any fire to spread rapidly.
The highest risk stretches across northwest Colorado, where dry vegetation and months of limited moisture have left fuels highly receptive to ignition. Even small sparks—from equipment, vehicles, or outdoor burning—can quickly turn into uncontrollable fires under these conditions.
Travelers along U.S. Highway 40 and Interstate 70 should remain alert for reduced visibility near any active fires and avoid activities that could produce sparks. Local agencies warn that outdoor burning should be avoided entirely, and any fires should be reported immediately.
