The warning was active for Central Colorado.

“Breezy westerly winds will continue to diminish through the early evening, while humidity levels continue to increase, which will allow for Red Flag Warning for portions of the I-25 Corridor to expire at 5 pm,” adds the National Weather Service.

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Teller County/Rampart Range including Pikes Peak and Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

• Fremont County including Canon City/Howard/Texas Creek

• Northern El Paso County including Monument and Black Forest

• Southern El Paso County including Fort Carson and Colorado Springs

• Pueblo County including Pueblo

• Huerfano County including Walsenburg

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 steps should you follow 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 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. Properly extinguish outdoor fires:

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