Pueblo, CO – It’s a dangerous day for wildfires. If you live in Pueblo or anywhere nearby, be extra cautious today—fire risk is at a critical level. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Monday, February 24, meaning that any small spark could quickly turn into a fast-moving wildfire.
With gusty winds, bone-dry air, and record-breaking heat, it won’t take much for fires to ignite and spread. Here’s what’s happening and what you need to do to stay safe.
Red Flag Warning – What You Need to Know
When: Monday, Feb. 24, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Where: Pueblo and surrounding areas
Why It’s Dangerous: Wind + Heat + Dry Air = High Fire Risk
These warnings don’t come often, but when they do, it means conditions are perfect for wildfires to start and spread quickly.
Why Is Fire Risk So High Today?
Several dangerous weather factors are coming together:
STRONG WINDS – Gusts up to 30 mph could cause small flames to spread rapidly.
EXTREMELY LOW HUMIDITY – The air is drier than a desert, with moisture levels at just 8%.
RECORD-BREAKING HEAT – Pueblo is expected to hit 80°F (27°C) today—much hotter than normal for February.
With these conditions, a single spark could turn into a major wildfire within minutes.
What You Should NOT Do Today
With fire conditions this extreme, it’s important to be extra careful to avoid starting a fire—even accidentally.
DO NOT:
- Burn anything outdoors – No campfires, no fire pits, no burning leaves or trash.
- Toss cigarette butts on the ground – Even one ember can set dry grass on fire instantly.
- Park on dry grass – Car exhaust pipes get hot enough to ignite dry vegetation underneath.
- Use equipment that sparks – Chainsaws, welders, and metal grinders can all throw sparks that start fires.
What’s Next? The Fire Weather Forecast
Monday, Feb. 24 – Fire Danger is Highest Today
- Morning: Cloudy and mild.
- Afternoon: 80°F (27°C), partly sunny, with gusty winds up to 30 mph.
- Evening: Cooler, dropping to 35°F (2°C), but dry conditions remain.
Tuesday, Feb. 25 – Slightly Cooler, But Fire Risk Stays High
- High: 74°F (23°C), still very warm and dry.
- Low: 34°F (1°C)
Midweek Outlook:
- Winds will calm slightly, but dry conditions continue.
- No significant rain in sight to reduce the fire danger.
Final Fire Safety Reminders
Stay Alert – If you see smoke or fire, call 911 immediately.
Have an Emergency Plan – Know your evacuation routes in case a fire starts near you.
Stay Updated – Follow local weather alerts and fire warnings for real-time updates.
Pueblo is one spark away from disaster today—please take this fire warning seriously. Avoid activities that could start fires, stay informed, and be ready to act if needed.
