On Monday at 5:41 p.m. the National Weather Service released an updated red flag warning valid for Tuesday between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. for Northern Colorado.
Residents can expect winds to be west 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 60 mph and relative humidity as low as 12 percent.
“Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire,” says the NWS.
The full list of affected locations includes:
• 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
• Northeast Weld County
• Central and South Weld County
• Morgan County
• Logan County
• Sedgwick County
• Phillips County
What is the significance of a red flag warning?
A red flag warning indicates that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently happening or will happen soon, as per 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 leave fires unattended:
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 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