Dangerous Winds and Fire Threat Grip Colorado

Gusty winds, warm temps, and dry air create critical fire conditions this weekend

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:07am

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Colorado is bracing for a prolonged period of strong winds and critical fire danger, with a Red Flag Warning in place for the entire Denver area, the base of the Front Range, and most of the eastern plains on Friday. Winds are expected to gust up to 50 mph in the mountains and foothills, and 30-40 mph across the plains. The fire threat will continue on Saturday as a cold front approaches, bringing even stronger winds up to 60 mph at the base of the foothills and 30-40 mph over the plains. The weekend will end with a dramatic temperature drop, with highs on Sunday plummeting as much as 40 degrees cooler than Saturday.

Why it matters

The combination of strong winds, warm temperatures, and dry air creates ideal conditions for rapid wildfire spread, posing a serious threat to communities across Colorado. Residents and officials must remain vigilant and prepared, as any spark could quickly turn into a dangerous blaze.

The details

On Thursday, wind gusts reached as high as 100 mph in parts of northern Colorado, equivalent to a Category 2 hurricane. While Friday's winds won't be quite as strong, they are still expected to gust up to 50 mph in the mountains and foothills, and 30-40 mph across the plains. The fire danger will persist on Saturday as a cold front approaches, bringing even stronger winds up to 60 mph at the base of the foothills and 30-40 mph over the plains.

  • On Thursday, wind gusts reached as high as 100 mph in parts of northern Colorado.
  • A Red Flag Warning is in place for the entire Denver area, base of the Front Range, and most of the eastern plains on Friday from 11am to 8pm.
  • On Saturday, a cold front will push through the region, bringing even stronger winds up to 60 mph at the base of the foothills and 30-40 mph over the plains.
  • Temperatures will plummet as much as 40 degrees cooler from Saturday to Sunday.

The players

Denver Area

The Denver metropolitan area and surrounding Front Range region, which is under a Red Flag Warning due to the dangerous fire conditions.

Colorado's Eastern Plains

The eastern plains of Colorado, which are also under a Red Flag Warning and facing critical fire danger.

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What’s next

Residents and officials in Colorado must remain vigilant and prepared for the high fire risk this weekend, as any spark could quickly turn into a dangerous blaze.

The takeaway

This prolonged period of strong winds, warm temperatures, and dry air in Colorado is creating an extremely hazardous situation for wildfires. Residents should heed all warnings and take necessary precautions to protect their homes and communities.