Denver, CO – Critical fire weather conditions are expected to intensify across the Denver metro area, Front Range foothills, and nearby eastern plains later this week, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Fire Weather Watch on Monday.
Fire Weather Watch issued for Wednesday
The Fire Weather Watch is set to take effect from Wednesday morning through Wednesday afternoon, covering large portions of northern Colorado. Meteorologists warn that a dangerous combination of strong winds and very low humidity could dramatically increase the risk of fast-spreading wildfires.
According to forecasters at the National Weather Service offices in Denver and Boulder, the developing pattern is one that often precedes rapid grass and brush fire growth, particularly in open and wind-exposed areas.
“Strong winds combined with very low relative humidity may lead to critical fire weather conditions,” weather officials cautioned in their Monday update.
Wind gusts could approach 60 mph
One of the most concerning elements of the forecast is wind strength. Sustained winds are expected to range between 20 and 40 miles per hour, with gusts reaching 55 to 60 mph, especially across the plains and foothills west and east of Denver.
These winds can quickly push flames across dry terrain, making fires difficult to control once they ignite. High winds also complicate aerial firefighting efforts and increase the risk of embers traveling long distances.
Meteorologists note that wind speeds are likely to peak during the late morning and afternoon hours on Wednesday, when atmospheric mixing is strongest.
Humidity levels dropping to dangerous lows
Adding to the concern is the expected drop in relative humidity, which could fall as low as 15% in some locations. At these levels, grasses, shrubs, and other fine fuels dry out rapidly, creating ideal conditions for ignition.
While forecasters acknowledge some uncertainty in how low humidity will drop in specific neighborhoods, the overall trend points toward critically dry air across much of the region.
Even a small spark, officials warn, could start a wildfire under these conditions.
Why this setup is especially risky
Fire weather events along Colorado’s Front Range are particularly dangerous due to the mix of urban development, open grasslands, and foothill terrain. Strong downslope winds can accelerate fires toward populated areas with little warning.
Weather officials say the current pattern resembles previous wind-driven fire events, where fires expanded rapidly within minutes of ignition.
The watch was issued Monday evening as part of a broader evaluation of midweek wind patterns across northern Colorado, signaling growing confidence in the potential severity of conditions.
Safety warnings for residents and travelers
Residents across the Denver metro area and surrounding counties are being urged to take precautions. Officials advise avoiding all outdoor burning, including fire pits and debris burning, during the watch period.
Activities that could produce sparks — such as welding, grinding, or discarding cigarettes outdoors — should be postponed. Even vehicle-related sparks along roadways can be enough to start a fire under these conditions.
Drivers of high-profile vehicles, including trucks, vans, and RVs, should also be cautious. Strong crosswinds may make travel hazardous, particularly on east-west roadways and open stretches of highway.
Could fire danger last beyond Wednesday?
The National Weather Service notes that locally elevated fire danger could persist into Thursday or Friday if dry and windy conditions continue. Forecasters will continue to monitor humidity trends and wind strength to determine whether the Fire Weather Watch may be upgraded to a Red Flag Warning.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated through official weather alerts and local emergency notifications as the forecast evolves.
What to do next
Officials stress the importance of preparedness during high fire danger periods. Clearing dry vegetation near homes, securing loose outdoor items, and staying alert to changing weather conditions can help reduce risk.
As conditions develop, residents should be ready to act quickly if new warnings are issued.
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