Most of Colorado is at risk of dangerous wildfires as warm, dry conditions persist
COLORADO – Parts of the Great Plains are under significant fire weather risk this week, as areas such as Colorado are being closely monitored for development.
States across the Great Plains, especially Colorado, are of concern for possible fire weather on Wednesday, as very low humidity and gusty winds could develop, resulting in a PDS (Particularly Dangerous Situation) warning for the state.
Ahead of an anticipated disturbance in the western U.S., an increasingly southwesterly flow will bring in warm temperatures along Colorado’s I-25 corridor, with the potential to reach the upper 80s, according to the FOX Forecast Center.
These warm conditions, combined with very dry and windy weather, are causing significant concern about the risk of fires developing.
"With highs nearly 20 degrees above average, humidity levels falling into the single digits and wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph in some locations, Fire Weather Warnings, specifically a PDS, have been issued across central and southern Colorado," the FOX Forecast Center said.
Most of Colorado is under Fire Weather Watches and Warnings as gusty, warm and dry conditions continue to develop.
STRONG WINDS FUEL SPRINGS FIRE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA WITH 4,000+ ACRES SCORCHED
These warnings and watches extend from New Mexico into western Minnesota and the Dakotas, spanning more than 1,000 miles.
These warnings will remain in effect through Thursday in many locations, as nearly 70% of the Great Plains is experiencing some form of drought, with 25% classified as exceptional conditions, according to the FOX Forecast Center.
For Colorado, 98% of the state is currently in a drought, giving officials good reason to be on high alert.
Luckily, by the time the weekend rolls around, precipitation will increase, lowering the risk of fires breaking out.
Stay tuned to FOX Weather as we continue to track these fiery conditions.
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