On Wednesday at 1:47 p.m. the National Weather Service issued an updated red flag warning in effect until 6 p.m. for Central Colorado.

Residents can expect winds to be west 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Brief gusts up to 40 mph possible in the vicinity of any thunderstorms and relative humidity as low as 11%.

“Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire,” adds the NWS.

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Jackson County below 9,000 feet

• South and Southeast Grand/West Central and Southwest Boulder/Gilpin/Clear Creek/Summit/North and West Park counties above 9,000 feet

• Grand and Summit counties below 9,000 feet

• Central and Southeast Park County

• West Jackson and West Grand counties above 9,000 feet

• South and East Jackson/Larimer/North and Northeast Grand/Northwest Boulder counties above 9,000 feet

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 actions are necessary 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. 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 safeguard against accidental fires, diligently extinguish all outdoor fires. Drown them with an ample amount of water and stir to confirm that everything is cold to the touch. Submerge charcoal in water until it’s thoroughly cooled. Never dispose of live charcoal on the ground.

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