On Friday at 10:44 a.m. the National Weather Service issued an updated red flag warning in effect until 8 p.m. for Central Colorado.

Winds are expected to be west 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph and relative humidity as low as 12 percent.

“A hot and dry airmass will hold across the area again today. It will be breezy at times, especially during the afternoon and early evening hours, leading to potential for rapid wildfire spread. Today will be a few degrees cooler in the mountains, but it will be just as dry, and also be a little windier than Thursday. Slight relief should come through the weekend with a gradual cooling trend and winds diminishing by Sunday,” explains the NWS. “Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire.”

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Jackson County below 9,000 feet

• South and Southeast Grand/West Central and Southwest Boulder/Gilpin/Clear Creek/Summit/North and West Park counties above 9,000 feet

• Grand and Summit counties below 9,000 feet

• Central and Southeast Park County

• Larimer and Boulder counties between 6,000 and 9,000 Feet

• Jefferson and West Douglas counties above 6,000 feet/Gilpin/Clear Creek/Northeast Park counties below 9,000 feet

• West Jackson and West Grand counties above 9,000 feet

• South and East Jackson/Larimer/North and Northeast Grand/Northwest Boulder counties above 9,000 feet

What does a red flag warning mean?

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 actions are necessary 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:

In areas where controlled burning is sanctioned, make certain that burn barrels sport a weighty metal cover, equipped with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.

2. Responsible disposal 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. 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 desert a blaze:

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