Grand Junction, Colo. – Wildfire risk across western Colorado and eastern Utah is set to spike Monday afternoon as a Red Flag Warning takes effect from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., threatening fast-moving fire conditions in dry, wind-prone areas below 7,000 feet.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, critical fire weather conditions are expected across at least 13 forecast zones including the Lower Colorado River Valley, the Gunnison Basin, and parts of the Book Cliffs and Eastern Uinta Basin. Southwest winds will range from 10 to 25 mph with gusts reaching up to 35 mph, while relative humidity could plummet to just 4–10%.
Counties under warning include Mesa, Garfield, and Routt in Colorado, along with Grand and San Juan in Utah. Dry fuels and hot, windy conditions mean that even small ignitions could escalate quickly. Officials urge residents to avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains, and use extreme caution with any spark-producing activity.
This marks the second consecutive day of Red Flag conditions for some areas, echoing similar mid-June fire threats from recent years.
Warnings remain in effect through 8 p.m. Monday, and additional alerts are possible if conditions persist.
