Critical fire weather conditions possible Wednesday

STERLING - Above normal temperatures, low relative humidity, and breezy conditions could lead to rapid fire spread for ready to burn fuels Wednesday afternoon, according to the National Weather Service office. 

Northeast Colorado, including Logan and Sedgwick Counties, were placed in a red flag warning from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday. A red flag warning means that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly.

Wind speeds will be sustained out of the north at 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph. Relative humidity will be as low as 12 percent. 

Cheyenne, Kimball, Banner, Morrill, Scotts Bluff, and Laramie Counties are in a fire weather watch Wednesday afternoon. 

A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and warm temperatures can contribute to extreme fire behavior. The weather services says to avoid any burning or outdoor activities that may produce a spark and start a wildfire.