The National Weather Service released a red flag warning at 11:04 a.m. on Thursday valid for Friday between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. for Denver and the Eastern Plains.

The NWS states that the warning was issued for wind and low relative humidity. Winds are expected to be west 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 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,” comments the NWS.

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Larimer County below 6,000 feet/Northwest Weld County

• Boulder/Jefferson counties below 6,000 feet/West Broomfield County

• North Douglas County below 6,000 feet/Denver/West Adams and Arapahoe counties/East Broomfield County

• Northeast Weld County

• Central and South Weld County

• Central and East Adams and Arapahoe counties

• Morgan County

• Logan County

• Washington County

What is the significance of a red flag warning?

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. Bolster burn barrel safety:

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. Properly extinguish outdoor fires:

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