Dangerous Wildfire Threat Persists in Western Colorado and Eastern Utah

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. - The forecast from KJCT warns of a dangerous risk of wildfires in the area on Tuesday and Wednesday. Several new wildfires have sparked in the region, which is currently under an active week of high wildfire risk, and this risk will persist throughout the week.

A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 1 PM until 9 PM on Tuesday for all of Western Colorado and Eastern Utah. This warning means weather conditions are favorable for fires to start easily and spread quickly.

A Fire Weather Watch is in effect from noon until 9 PM on Wednesday for all of Western Colorado and Eastern Utah. This watch has the same implications as the Red Flag Warning.

The risk of wildfires is highest through Wednesday, after which it will remain elevated through the weekend. It is recommended that all outdoor burning be postponed until weather conditions become more favorable for containing fires. This is expected to occur at the earliest next week.

In addition to the wildfire threat, the forecast also suggests a rise in temperatures throughout the week. Summer officially begins on June 21, but the area will see temperatures reaching 100 degrees by Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

On Tuesday, the weather will be sunny with only a few passing clouds expected. Temperatures will rise throughout the day from lows of 60-70°F to highs of 90-95°F near Grand Junction and surrounding areas.