An updated red flag warning was released by the National Weather Service on Monday at 5:51 p.m. valid for Tuesday between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. for Southeast Colorado.
Expect winds to be west 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 65 mph and relative humidity as low as 11 percent.
“Fires will catch and spread quickly. Exercise extreme caution with any outdoor burning,” comments the NWS.
The full list of affected locations includes:
• Crowley County including Ordway
• Otero County including La Junta and Western Comanche Grasslands
• Eastern Las Animas County including Pinon Canyon
• Kiowa County including Eads
• Bent County including Las Animas
• Prowers County including Lamar
• Baca County including Springfield and Eastern Comanche Grasslands
What does a red flag warning indicate?
A red flag warning means that extreme fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly, according to the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire spreading rapidly.
What are the recommended measures to take during a red flag warning?
A red flag warning demands vigilance and immediate readiness to respond to potential fires. The NWS provides these vital guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety:
1. Bolster burn barrel safety:
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 handling of smoking materials:
Steer clear of haphazardly discarding lit cigarette butts and avoid flinging cigarettes or matches from moving vehicles. These innocuous-seeming actions can kindle dry vegetation, potentially spawning 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:
Refrain from leaving any fire unattended. Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand.
Understanding the gravity of a red flag warning and adhering to these precautions is pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay informed, and act responsibly to protect lives and property.
Source: The National Weather Service