On Tuesday at 2:01 p.m. a red flag warning was released by the National Weather Service valid for Wednesday between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. for Denver and the Eastern Plains.

The NWS states that the warning was issued for wind and low relative humidity. Expect winds to be northwest 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,” describes 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

• Central and South Weld County

• Central and East Adams and Arapahoe counties

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

• Morgan County

• Washington County

• Sedgwick County

• Phillips County

What does a red flag warning indicate?

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 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 disposal 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 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 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