Residents across much of western Colorado are facing a heightened wildfire threat on Saturday, with Red Flag Warnings in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The National Weather Service has stated that this could be the final day of widespread critical fire conditions this week, although parts of the southwest may continue to experience elevated fire danger into Sunday.
According to the NWS in Grand Junction, minimum humidity levels will drop to between 7% and 12%, while gusty winds could reach up to 30 mph. These conditions—dry air, warm temperatures, and strong winds—create an environment where any spark has the potential to spread rapidly. Counties including Mesa, Delta, Montrose, and Montezuma are among those facing the highest fire risk on Saturday.
Fire officials are urging residents to take extra precautions during this period of heightened risk. They recommend avoiding outdoor burning, securing trailer chains to prevent sparks from dragging on pavement, and refraining from parking vehicles on dry grass. Tossing cigarettes is another significant hazard in these conditions, so extra care should be taken to properly dispose of them.
While winds are expected to ease slightly on Sunday, the NWS warns that localized areas—particularly in southwestern Colorado—could still experience critical fire weather through early next week. Residents in these areas should remain vigilant and stay updated on fire weather alerts throughout the weekend and beyond.
