Red flag warning issued for Northern Colorado
A red flag warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Denver at 12:58 a.m. on Sunday, April 20. This warning applies to Northeast Weld County, Morgan County, North and Northeast Elbert County below 6,000 feet, North Lincoln County, Southeast Elbert County below 6,000 feet, South Lincoln County, Logan County, Washington County, Sedgwick County and Phillips County.
The NWS warns: "A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low Relative humidity, and Warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior."
At 12:58 a.m., the NWS issued a statement including the following information:
"The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from noon to 7 p.m. MDT Monday. AFFECTED AREA, Fire Weather Zones 242, 244, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250 and 251. TIMING, From noon to 7 p.m. MDT Monday. WINDS, West and southwest 15 to 20 mph with gusts to 30 mph. RELATIVE HUMIDITY, As low as 12 percent.
IMPACTS: Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire."
A red flag warning is issued when "critical fire weather conditions" are in place.
"A red flag warning means warm temperatures, very low humidity, and stronger winds are expected to combine to produce an increased risk of fire danger," the National Weather Service said.
Forecasters said residents under a red flag warning should follow this advice:
If you are allowed to burn in your area, all burn barrels must be covered with a weighted metal cover, with holes no larger than 3/4 of an inch.
Do not throw cigarettes or matches out of a moving vehicle. They may ignite dry grass on the side of the road.
Extiniguish all outdoor fires properly. Drown fires with plenty of water and stir to make sure everything is cold to the touch. Dunk charcoal in water until cold. Do not throw live charcoal on the ground and leave it.
Never leave a fire unattended. Sparks or embers can blow into leaves or grass, ignite a fire, and quickly spread.
"Most wildfires are caused by humans; many everyday things can create sparks," the National Weather Service said. Suggestions for everyday wildfire prevention include:
Have a 10-foot radius around campfires, burning brush, etc. And never leave a fire unattended. Properly extinguish the blaze before leaving.
Use grills and smokers on gravel or paved surfaces.
Do not toss a lit cigarette on the ground. Put ashes in a metal container with a tight lid.
Store water near campfires, fire pits, grills, burning brush, etc.
Maintain your vehicle's brakes and tires and secure tow chains so they don't drag on the ground. Do not drive on dry grass or brush.
Water your lawn and keep grass cut. Mow early in the morning when it's not windy or excessively dry.
Reporter Cheryl McCloud contributed to this article.
This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor. Let our News Automation and AI team know what you think of this story here.
This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Red flag warning issued for Northern Colorado
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