Hey, Colorado! Tuesday’s weather isn’t going to be your usual breezy day—it’s going to be wild. Strong winds are coming in, and they’re going to be hitting Pueblo and the plains with gusts that could top 50 mph. If you’ve got outdoor plans, you might want to rethink them. Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and prepared for the storm.
So, What’s Happening?
A big weather system is blowing through on Tuesday, and it’s bringing some seriously strong winds with it. We’re talking about gusts that could reach 50 mph or more, especially in areas like Pueblo and along the plains. These aren’t just strong winds; they’re strong enough to cause some serious problems if you’re not ready for them.
Why Should You Care?
You might be thinking, “It’s just wind. I’ve seen worse.” But this is different, and here’s why:
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Flying Debris Can Be Dangerous: At 50 mph, the wind can turn just about anything into a projectile. Branches, trash cans, or even light patio furniture could be tossed around, and you don’t want to be caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. It’s not just uncomfortable—it can be risky.
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Driving Can Be Tough: If you’ve got to drive on Tuesday, you’ll need to be extra cautious. These strong gusts can mess with your vehicle’s control, especially if you’re driving something large, like an RV or a truck. On highways, those gusts can really knock your car off course, so it’s best to slow down and pay attention to the road. Watch out for flying debris, too.
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Increased Risk of Wildfires: With all the dry conditions we’ve been dealing with, the winds could stoke any existing fires or make new ones easier to start. There’s not a major fire warning yet, but with gusts this strong, it’s always smart to be on the lookout. If you’re in an area where fires are a concern, stay extra alert.
How to Stay Safe
1. Secure Everything Outside: If you’ve got things outside that aren’t tied down, now’s the time to bring them inside. Wind gusts this strong can turn anything—patio chairs, trash bins, even garden tools—into flying objects. It’s a small effort that can make a big difference.
2. Be Cautious on the Road: If you don’t have to drive, stay home. But if you do, take it easy on the roads. These winds will affect your steering and can make it harder to stay in your lane, especially on open roads where there’s nothing to break the wind. Keep both hands on the wheel, slow down, and stay alert for any debris that might get blown into your path.
3. Limit Time Outdoors: If you don’t need to be outside, don’t be. The wind will be howling, and you don’t want to be out there trying to fight your way through it. If you do need to go outside, make sure you’re dressed for it and watch your surroundings carefully.
4. Keep Track of Weather Updates: Things can change fast, so make sure you’re staying updated on the latest forecasts. If the winds start getting even stronger or conditions worsen, you’ll want to be in the loop. Whether it’s through an app or a weather station, keep an ear out.
5. Prepare for Power Outages: With gusts like this, there’s a chance you might lose power if branches fall or power lines get knocked down. It’s a good idea to make sure your phone is charged, and maybe have a flashlight or some extra batteries on hand. If the power goes out, you’ll want to stay in touch with weather updates, too.
Why It’s More Than Just Wind
Look, we’ve all seen strong winds before, but this is different. The gusts could cause real damage—downed trees, power outages, and possible disruptions to your daily plans. The dry conditions make this windstorm even more concerning. It’s a storm that could affect more than just your comfort; it could bring serious safety issues too. So don’t just roll with it—take a few minutes to get ready.
Stay Safe and Smart, Colorado
The winds hitting Pueblo and the plains on Tuesday aren’t to be taken lightly. They’re strong enough to cause a lot of issues, from downed branches to difficult driving conditions, to potential fire risks. But with a little preparation, you’ll be able to ride it out safely. Secure your outdoor stuff, drive carefully, and keep an eye on the weather throughout the day. Let’s all stay safe, stay alert, and get through this windstorm without any issues!