On Thursday at 8:16 a.m. a red flag warning was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until 5 p.m. for Denver and the Eastern Plains.

The NWS states that the warning was issued for wind and low relative humidity. Winds are expected to be west 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph and relative humidity as low as 15 percent.

“Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire,” explains the NWS.

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Jefferson and West Douglas counties above 6,000 feet/Gilpin/Clear Creek/Northeast Park counties below 9,000 feet

• Larimer County below 6,000 feet/Northwest Weld County

• Boulder/Jefferson counties below 6,000 feet/West Broomfield County

• North Douglas County below 6,000 feet/Denver/West Adams and Arapahoe counties/East Broomfield County

• Elbert/central and east Douglas counties above 6,000 feet

• Northeast Weld County

• Central and South Weld County

• Central and East Adams and Arapahoe counties

• North and Northeast Elbert County below 6,000 feet/North Lincoln County

• Southeast Elbert County below 6,000 feet/South Lincoln County

What does a red flag warning mean?

A red flag warning signifies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently in effect or will be shortly, as stated by the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire to spread rapidly.

What steps should you follow during a red flag warning?

During a red flag warning, it is crucial to exercise extreme caution and be prepared to take immediate action in case a fire starts. The NWS offers these steps you can take to lower the risk of fires igniting and ensure your safety:

1. Secure burn barrels:

If burning is authorized in your vicinity, ensure that all burn barrels feature a weighted metal cover with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Mindful disposal of smoking materials:

Prudently discard cigarette butts and avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle. These seemingly innocuous actions can kindle dry grass, potentially triggering a wildfire.

3. Prudent fire extinguishing practices:

To thwart accidental fires, diligently extinguish all outdoor fires. Suffocate them with an ample deluge of water and stir to ensure complete cooling. Submerge charcoal in water until it’s entirely devoid of heat. Never leave live charcoal unattended.

4. Never desert a blaze:

Avoid leaving any fire unattended. Even sparks or embers carried by the wind can ignite nearby leaves or grass, triggering a fire that spreads rapidly.

Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is paramount in averting wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay impeccably informed, and assume responsibility to shield lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service