Pueblo, CO – Northwest wind gusts up to 50 mph will combine with humidity as low as 14 percent to create explosive fire conditions across Pueblo, Huerfano and western Las Animas counties between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. MST. Any spark during peak heating could spread rapidly across dry grasslands.
According to the National Weather Service in Pueblo, a Red Flag Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. through 5 p.m. MST for Fire Weather Zones 228, 229 and 230. Sustained northwest winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected today, with stronger gusts, while critically dry air drops relative humidity into the low teens. On Thursday, a Fire Weather Watch is in place from morning through afternoon as winds gust to 40 mph and humidity falls as low as 12 percent.
Communities including Pueblo, Walsenburg, Trinidad and Thatcher face the highest risk during the afternoon hours. Strong crosswinds may impact travel along I-25 and Highway 50, where blowing dust and fast-moving grassfires could reduce visibility.
Residents should avoid outdoor burning, secure trailer chains, and delay welding or equipment use that could produce sparks. Additional Red Flag Warnings may be issued Thursday if conditions intensify.
