At 10:01 a.m. on Thursday, the National Weather Service issued an updated red flag warning valid between noon and 8 p.m. for Yuma, Kit Carson and Cheyenne counties.

Residents can expect winds to be south 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph and relative humidity as low as 9%.

“Dry conditions with RH values dropping to around 10% and winds from the southwest gusting up around 25-35 MPH will lead to critical fire weather conditions. Areas in eastern Colorado will see the strongest winds. Little humidity recovery is forecast this evening and ahead of the front with values around 25% or less; confidence is low if winds can still continue to remain breezy during this time however. A wind shift to the northwest is forecast early Friday morning and winds will rapidly strengthen,” according to the NWS. “Unpredictable fire behavior. Any fires that develop may rapidly grow and spread out of control.”

What does a red flag warning indicate?

A red flag warning implies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently taking place or will occur shortly, according to 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 should you do under 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 permitted in your area, ensure that all burn barrels have a weighted metal cover, complete with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Mindful handling of smoking materials:

Never discard lit cigarette butts outside, and avoid tossing cigarettes or matches from a moving vehicle. These seemingly small actions can lead to dry grass ignition, potentially sparking a wildfire.

3. Properly extinguish outdoor fires:

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 mitigating the risk of wildfires during these perilous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay well-informed, and act responsibly to safeguard lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service