The warning was for the Eastern Plains.

“Cooling teperatures and rising humidity levels have decreased the fire danger. Therefore, the Red Flag Warning will be allowed to expire,” states the National Weather Service.

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Northern El Paso County including Monument and Black Forest

• Southern El Paso County including Fort Carson and Colorado Springs

• Pueblo County including Pueblo

• 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 is the significance of a red flag warning?

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 actions are necessary 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 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:

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 prevent inadvertent fires, diligently douse all outdoor fires. Quench them with a copious deluge of water and stir to guarantee complete cooling. Submerge charcoal until it’s thoroughly bereft of residual heat. Never depart from live charcoal unattended.

4. Never leave fires unattended:

Avoid abandoning any fire without supervision. Even minor sparks or drifting embers can incite nearby foliage or grass, setting off a rapidly spreading fire.

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