Red Flag Warnings Keep Fire Risk Critical Across Southern and Western Colorado

Overview

• The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings for multiple southern and western Colorado zones that are in effect from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday, and Fire Weather Watches are posted for later in the week.
• Forecasters cite very low humidities often in the single digits and southwest winds that commonly gust 30–45 mph with locally higher gusts and model guidance showing bursts up to 65 mph.
• NWS Boulder and Pueblo warn that isolated thunderstorms may produce strong outflow winds and large hail capable of creating sudden, erratic fire behavior and rapid spread.
• The Aspen Acres Fire remains a large active incident reported at about 23,000 acres with 0 percent containment and its smoke has triggered air-quality alerts that advise people to limit outdoor exposure.
• Authorities are enforcing statewide fire restrictions, urging residents to avoid any spark-producing activity, report new fires quickly, and prepare for continued poor air quality and travel or health impacts through the holiday period.