At 6:58 p.m. on Tuesday, the National Weather Service released an updated red flag warning valid for Wednesday between noon and 7 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, Central and Southeast Park County, West Jackson and West Grand counties above 9,000 feet and South and East Jackson/Larimer/North and Northeast Grand/Northwest Boulder counties above 9,000 feet.
Winds are forecasted to be west 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph and relative humidity as low as 8%.
“Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire,” states the NWS.
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 should you do under 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. Bolster burn barrel safety:
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. Mindful handling 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:
Refrain from leaving any fire unattended. Even minor parks or embers might be carried into leaves or grass, kindling a fire that can swiftly expand.
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