Dangerous, High Winds To Sweep Through Colorado’s Plains – Patch

High winds are again set to hit central and eastern Colorado on Wednesday, the National Weather Service warned.

Gusts up to 100 mph hit some plains regions Tuesday, bringing down trees and even toppling a semi truck on I-25, officials confirmed.

The agency has issued a red flag warning, which remains in effect until 9 p.m. Wednesday, but high winds could continue for several days, officials said.

“Expect critical fire weather conditions through at least Thursday due strong and gusty winds and dry air,” the National Weather Service said in an alert. “Winds should subside somewhat by Friday, but breezy conditions and low humidity can still be expected.”

North and northwest winds are expected to gust between 35 and 45 mph Wednesday, but the plains could see gusts up to 65 mph, weather officials said.

With humidity hovering between 10 and 15 percent, Coloradans need to be cautious, the agency said.

“Any fire that develops will likely spread rapidly,” the weather alert read. “Outdoor burning should be avoided, as well as any activity that may produce a spark and start a fast moving wildfire.”

Several small wildfires sparked around Denver’s metro area and Boulder County Tuesday, but were quickly extinguished, fire officials said. A small wildfire ignited Tuesday morning in Boulder County’s Carriage Hills neighborhood, but crews moved fast, and the fire was extinguished by 5:30 a.m., the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office said.