The National Weather Service released a red flag warning at 2:13 p.m. on Wednesday valid for Thursday between noon and 9 p.m. for Southeast Colorado.
Winds are expected to be southwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph and relative humidity as low as 9 percent.
“Fires will catch and spread quickly. Exercise extreme caution with any outdoor burning,” states the NWS.
The full list of affected locations includes:
• Teller County/Rampart Range including Pikes Peak and Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
• Crowley County including Ordway
• Otero County including La Junta and Western Comanche Grasslands
• Kiowa County including Eads
• Bent County including Las Animas
• Prowers County including Lamar
What does a red flag warning mean?
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?
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 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:
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 safeguard against accidental fires, diligently extinguish all outdoor fires. Drown them with an ample amount of water and stir to confirm that everything is cold to the touch. Submerge charcoal in water until it’s thoroughly cooled. Never dispose of live charcoal on the ground.
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