Wildfires are currently increasing across the western United States. Although we are not currently seeing any big fires in Colorado, other states have not been as fortunate. The South Fork wildfire in western Nebraska has been well documented here in previous blog entries. There is some good news as the South Fork fire has diminished in intensity in recent days with an increase in the amount of fire containment. However, dry and windy conditions return to the Nebraska panhandle today which could intensify fire activity and produce an increase in smoke. If that occurs, some smoke could push into the northeastern corner of Colorado Monday night. Of course that is entirely dependent on if fire activity increases Monday afternoon. Stay tuned.
Meanwhile, we must also keep our eyes well to the northwest of Colorado where some large wildfires are burning in southern Washington. The two wildfires of most concern at the moment are the Tule fire and the Juniper Dunes fire. With a Red Flag Warning in effect for both of these fires on Tuesday, rapid intensification will be possible. If this does occur, the upper level winds over these fires could act as a conveyor belt to transport smoke in the direction of Colorado. Hazy skies will be possible as early as Tuesday afternoon across northwestern Colorado. However, a more significant smoke intrusion might be possible on Wednesday across the northern half of the state.
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