Wildfire Smoke Drifts into Colorado, Triggering Air Quality Alerts

DENVER – Residents of northeastern Colorado are experiencing hazy skies and the smell of smoke as winds carry wildfire fallout from central Nebraska. A significant wildfire in Nebraska prompted evacuations in Farnam and southwest Dawson County late Thursday and early Friday.

Current Situation & Air Quality

The 9NEWS Weather Impact Team reports a shift in winds this morning is drawing smoke eastward into northeastern Colorado, particularly impacting the Hudson/Greeley area. While the Greeley Fire Department confirms no active fires within city limits, they advise residents to take precautions if sensitive to poor air quality. This includes using filtered masks, staying indoors, and limiting strenuous outdoor activity.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) issued an Air Quality Health Advisory at 7 a.m. Friday, covering eastern Colorado counties including Larimer, Weld, Morgan, and others. The advisory warns that smoke will impact the area throughout Friday, potentially lingering into Saturday across southeastern Colorado. You can find a complete list of affected counties here.

If you experience thick smoke:

• Remain indoors, especially if you have heart or respiratory issues, are very young, or are elderly.
• Limit outdoor activity.
• Consider temporary relocation if smoke enters your home and causes illness.
• If visibility drops below 5 miles, the smoke level is considered unhealthy.

Weather Warnings & Forecast

Beyond the smoke, Colorado is bracing for windy conditions and a dramatic temperature swing. High Wind Warnings are in effect for the mountains and foothills above 7,000 feet, and Fire Weather Warnings cover Denver and the metro area.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Friday: Foothills will experience gusts up to 60-80 mph. Denver will see gusts of 30-40 mph. Temperatures will reach the low 70s.
• Saturday: Widespread winds of 40-60 mph, with potential gusts of 60-70 mph Saturday night ahead of a cold front. Temperatures will climb into the mid-70s.
• Saturday Night/Sunday: A sharp cold front will bring mountain snow squalls and a significant temperature drop. Denver will plummet from the mid-70s to the 20s, with potential for a dusting to 2 inches of snow.

Looking Ahead: A Historic Heat Wave

Following the cold snap, Colorado is poised for a historic March heat wave. Temperatures in Denver could reach near 90 degrees later next week, potentially breaking the all-time record of 84 degrees set on March 26, 1971.

Stay tuned to 9NEWS for the latest updates on this rapidly changing weather situation.

Resources:

• Live Interactive Radar
• Latest Closings and Delays
• Weather Line 9: 303-871-1492
• 9NEWS Website

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