At 1:37 p.m. on Tuesday, the National Weather Service released a fire weather watch valid for Thursday between noon and 8 p.m. for the Western Slope.

Winds are expected to be west 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph and relative humidity 7 to 12 percent.

“Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended,” comments the NWS.

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Southwest Colorado Lower Forecast Area

• Paradox Valley

• Northern San Juan

• North Fork

• Gunnison Basin

• Southwest Colorado Upper West Forecast Area

According to the NWS, a fire weather watch means that critical fire weather conditions are possible. Listen for later forecasts and possible red flag warnings.

Source: The National Weather Service