SIDNEY - Weather officials are expressing concern of extreme fire danger in western Nebraska and northeast Colorado.

The National Weather Service office issued a red flag warning Scotts Bluff, Banner, Kimball, Morrill, Cheyenne, Deuel, Keith, Arthur, Perkins and Chase Counties in Nebraska; Logan, Sedgwick and Phillips Counties in Colorado. The warning is in effect until 8 p.m. Wednesday.

A Red Flag Warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds up to 30 mph at times, low relative humidity and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior.

The weather service says to avoid any outdoor burning and activities, such as fireworks, that could spark a wildfire. Fires could rapidly spread under the forecasted weather conditions. 

Potter Volunteer Fire Department Chief Mark Onstott is asking residents in their district to refrain from using fireworks.

"Be very careful while doing so this 4th of July Holiday Season due to extremely dry conditions across the region," Onstott said. "Thanks for your continued support."

Scattered thunderstorms are possible Wednesday evening across western Nebraska and northeast Colorado, which presents an increased risk of lightning  and even gustier and erratic winds.