Denver rolled into Wednesday, April 22, under warm, dry skies and a growing southwest breeze. By this afternoon, temperatures are expected to jump into the mid 80s while winds strengthen, setting up a day of elevated fire danger across the metro area and nearby foothills.
Red Flag Warning In Effect
The National Weather Service has a Red Flag Warning in place from 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 22, through midnight for Denver, the plains and many foothill zones, citing gusty southwest winds and very low relative humidity, according to the National Weather Service. The forecast calls for a high near 85°F with southwest winds increasing to around 17 to 22 mph and gusts up to about 35 mph this afternoon, with pockets of single-digit to low teens humidity possible. Breezy overnight winds and poor humidity recovery are expected, and forecasters say that will keep fire danger elevated into Thursday.
Local Restrictions Already In Place
A recent fast-moving grass fire near Deer Trail prompted Arapahoe County to impose a Stage 2 burn ban earlier this month, as per Hoodline, which limits most outdoor fires and open burning in much of the county, as a fast moving Deer Trail blaze was reported. Local fire districts and the sheriff's office are enforcing those restrictions, and residents in affected neighborhoods are being told to assume no open flames are allowed unless explicitly exempted.
Thursday And Weekend Outlook
Forecasters have also flagged a Fire Weather Watch for Thursday morning through the evening for many lower elevation zones, raising the possibility of another critical fire day if humidity stays low, according to the National Weather Service. Cooler and more unsettled weather is expected by the weekend, with highs dropping into the mid-60s on Thursday and a better chance of showers on Sunday. Officials urge residents to keep an eye on official alerts for any upgrades to warnings or changes to local burn bans.
Practical Tips
If you have outdoor plans, today is the day to postpone yard burning and skip charcoal or wood grills this afternoon. Gas grills that do not emit sparks are typically allowed under many bans, but check your local rules before you fire one up. Secure loose yard debris, keep vehicles and equipment away from dry grass, and sign up for county emergency alerts so you get any updates on burn bans or warnings. If you spot smoke or a fire, call 911 immediately and provide the location, and do not assume someone else has already reported it.
