The National Weather Service released an updated fire weather watch at 1:57 a.m. on Thursday valid for Friday between noon and 8 p.m. for South and Southeast Grand/West Central and Southwest Boulder/Gilpin/Clear Creek/Summit/North and West Park counties above 9,000 feet, 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 and South and East Jackson/Larimer/North and Northeast Grand/Northwest Boulder counties above 9,000 feet.

Expect winds to be west 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 40 mph and relative humidity as low as 12 percent.

“A hot and dry airmass will hold across the area through Friday. It will be breezy at times, especially during the afternoon and early evening hours, leading to potential for rapid wildfire spread. Red Flag Warnings are now in effect for this afternoon, with a Fire Weather Watch in effect for Friday. Slight relief should come through the weekend with a gradual cooling trend and winds diminishing by Sunday,” according to 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.”

A fire weather watch means that critical fire weather conditions are possible. Listen for later forecasts and possible red flag warnings.

Source: The National Weather Service