A red flag warning was released by the National Weather Service on Wednesday at 3:10 a.m. valid for Thursday between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. for the Eastern Plains.
Winds are forecasted to be southwest 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph and relative humidity as low as 5 percent.
“Elevated fire danger is expected. Fires will catch and spread rapidly and erratically,” describes the NWS.
The full list of affected locations includes:
• Teller County/Rampart Range including Pikes Peak and Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
• Northern El Paso County including Monument and Black Forest
• Southern El Paso County including Fort Carson and Colorado Springs
• Crowley County including Ordway
• Kiowa County including Eads
• Bent County including Las Animas
• Prowers County including Lamar
What does a red flag warning mean?
A red flag warning means that extreme fire weather conditions are either occurring now or will shortly, according to the NWS. Warm temperatures, very low humidities, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire spreading rapidly.
What actions are necessary 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. Responsible 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:
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 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