The warning was issued for Central Colorado.

“A cold front was moving down the plains this evening. After the front goes by. humidity values will significantly increase. Temperatures tomorrow will be noticeably cooler across the plains, and several degrees cooler over the valleys and mountains. Winds will be gusty from the northeast for a few hours after the front goes by, but will then decrease,” according to 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

• San Luis Valley including Alamosa/Del Norte/Fort Garland/Saguache

• Southern Front Range including Sangre De Cristo Mountains/Wet Mountains/La Veta Pass

• 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

• Western Las Animas County including Trinidad and Thatcher

• Crowley County including Ordway

What does a red flag warning indicate?

A red flag warning signifies that either extreme fire weather conditions are currently in effect or will be shortly, as stated by 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?

A red flag warning demands vigilance and immediate readiness to respond to potential fires. The NWS provides these vital guidelines to minimize fire hazards and ensure your safety:

1. Bolster burn barrel safety:

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 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. 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 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 pivotal in reducing the risk of wildfires during these hazardous conditions. Prioritize safety, stay informed, and act responsibly to protect lives and property.

Source: The National Weather Service