Key Takeaways
- The National Weather Service has issued a ‘Particularly Dangerous Situation’ (PDS) for high fire danger in the Foothills of Colorado due to strong winds, dry conditions, and record warmth.
- Wind gusts of 85-105 miles per hour are expected in the Highway 93 corridor and Foothills, leading to a high risk of rapidly spreading wildfires.
- The PDS warning is stronger than the standard Red Flag Warnings issued in other parts of Colorado.
- A storm system moving in from the Pacific Northwest will bring snow to the high country late Friday night into Saturday, with Winter Weather Advisories in place for several areas.
Introduction to the Weather Warning
The National Weather Service has issued a rare ‘Particularly Dangerous Situation’ (PDS) warning for high fire danger in the Foothills of Colorado, effective on Friday afternoon. This warning is a strong indication of the severe conditions that will be present across Colorado, emphasizing the need for extreme caution and vigilance. The PDS warning is a stronger alert than the standard Red Flag Warnings issued in other parts of the state, highlighting the critical nature of the situation.
Weather Conditions Contributing to Fire Danger
The conditions that will be present on Friday are a perfect storm for wildfires to spread quickly and uncontrollably. Strong winds, with gusts of 85-105 miles per hour, are expected in the Highway 93 corridor and Foothills, coupled with a very dry airmass, critically dry fuels, and record warmth. These factors combined create an environment that is highly susceptible to rapidly spreading wildfires. The wind event is expected to last into the overnight hours, causing more power outages and extending outages for those currently without power.
Wind Gusts and Fire Danger
The wind gusts are a major contributor to the high fire danger, as they can spread embers and sparks quickly, igniting new fires and fueling existing ones. The strongest winds are anticipated to last through the afternoon, gradually relaxing overnight. However, the wind event will also impact other parts of the state, with the Denver Metro area expecting wind gusts of up to 40 mph through the afternoon. Northern Colorado will experience stronger winds, with gusts of up to 60 mph through the evening.
Record Warmth and Its Impact
The record warmth is also a significant factor in the high fire danger, as it contributes to the dry conditions and increases the risk of wildfires. By noon on Friday, the previous record high temperature was broken at the airport, with temperatures continuing to warm into the upper 60s and low 70s. This warmth, combined with the strong winds and dry conditions, creates an environment that is highly conducive to wildfires.
Storm System and Winter Weather Advisories
Late Friday night into Saturday, a storm system moving in from the Pacific Northwest will bring some snow to the high country, providing some relief from the fire danger. Winter Weather Advisories are in place for several areas, including Rabbit Ears Pass, Rocky Mountain National Park, Medicine Bow Range, Summit County, Mosquito Range, and Indian Peaks, through midnight Saturday. Most places will see 1-4 inches of snow, with pass levels potentially receiving as much as 12 inches. Winds in those areas could also gust up to 60 mph, causing blowing snow and low visibility.
Conclusion and Precautions
In conclusion, the National Weather Service’s ‘Particularly Dangerous Situation’ warning for high fire danger in the Foothills of Colorado is a strong indication of the severe conditions that will be present on Friday. The combination of strong winds, dry conditions, and record warmth creates an environment that is highly susceptible to rapidly spreading wildfires. It is essential for residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution and follow all precautions to prevent wildfires, including avoiding outdoor activities that could spark fires and staying informed about the latest weather conditions and warnings.