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Critical fire danger returns Wednesday as heavy snow hits the mountains
Strong downsloping wind will lead to another high fire danger day on the Plains, as more snow falls in the mountains.
Published on Feb. 21, 2026
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A secondary jet stream maximum will move overhead today, driving more snow into the mountains but also leading to strong, gusty winds and critical fire danger on the Plains. Red Flag Warnings will be in place for southern El Paso County, and a High Wind Warning is in effect for the Pikes Peak Region as winds could gust up to 60 mph. A cold front will sweep in tonight, bringing the potential for a quick burst of intense snowfall.
Why it matters
The combination of strong winds, low humidity, and dry conditions creates an elevated risk of wildfires in the region, which has seen an increase in property damage and public safety concerns in recent years. The heavy snow in the mountains is desperately needed, but will also make travel treacherous.
The details
The strongest winds and gusts are expected across the upper Arkansas River Valley and southeastern mountains, with peak gusts potentially reaching 60 mph in some areas. Blowing dust could also reduce visibility in the Pueblo area. A cold front arriving tonight will bring a quick burst of snow, with up to 1 inch of accumulation possible in the Pikes Peak Region and Teller County.
- Red Flag Warnings will be in place for southern El Paso County today from 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM.
- A High Wind Warning is in effect for the Pikes Peak Region this evening, from 8:00 PM-7:00 AM.
- A cold front will sweep across Teller County late this afternoon, leading to more strong wind and a quick burst of snow.
The players
KOAA
A local news station in Southern Colorado that provided the weather forecast and information for this story.
The takeaway
This weather pattern highlights the ongoing challenges of managing fire risk and mountain travel conditions in Colorado, as strong winds, dry conditions, and heavy snowfall can create dangerous situations for residents and travelers alike. Local authorities will need to closely monitor the situation and provide timely updates to the public.
