Pueblo, CO – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Pueblo has issued a Red Flag Warning for much of southern and central Colorado on Monday, citing gusty winds and low humidity that could create critical fire weather conditions.
The warning is in effect from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. MDT Monday for Fremont, El Paso, Pueblo, Huerfano, Las Animas, Crowley, and Kiowa Counties, including Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Walsenburg, Trinidad, and Canon City.
Forecasters expect north winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph, and relative humidity levels dropping to around 13%. These conditions could cause fires to ignite easily and spread rapidly, especially across grasslands and foothill areas.
Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, secure equipment that could produce sparks, and refrain from activities like welding or mowing dry fields during the warning period. Even small fires could become uncontrollable under Monday’s weather setup.
“A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior,” the NWS warned.
Fire danger will remain elevated into early Tuesday before cooler air and lighter winds move into the region.
