Craig, CO – Powerful winds and extremely dry air are setting the stage for dangerous wildfire conditions across western Colorado this weekend, with another round of fire danger already possible early next week.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, a Red Flag Warning takes effect from noon through 8 p.m. Saturday for the Little Snake and White River forecast areas below 8,000 feet. Forecasters expect southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts reaching 40 to 50 mph while humidity drops to between 10 and 15 percent.
Those conditions create an environment where even a small spark can quickly grow into a fast-moving wildfire. The warning covers parts of Moffat and Rio Blanco counties, including Craig, Meeker, Rangely and surrounding rural communities.
Saturday’s strong winds could also affect travel along U.S. Highway 40 and Colorado Highway 13, where sudden gusts and blowing dust may reduce visibility in open areas.
Fire managers urge residents to avoid outdoor burning and postpone activities that could create sparks. Equipment use, welding, campfires and dragging trailer chains can easily ignite dry grasses when humidity is this low and winds are this strong.
The fire danger may not end with the weekend. Meteorologists have already issued a Fire Weather Watch for Monday afternoon through Monday evening as another round of gusty winds and dry air moves into the region.
Additional warnings could be issued if conditions worsen. Officials encourage residents across northwest Colorado to stay alert and report any smoke immediately.
