SIDNEY, Neb. – The National Weather Service has issued Red Flag Warnings through Tuesday evening for areas of the Nebraska Panhandle and northeastern Colorado due to critical fire weather conditions, with Fire Weather Watches already in place for Wednesday.

The warnings cover multiple fire zones, including the Lower North Platte River Basin, Scottsbluff National Monument, Lodgepole Creek and the southern Nebraska Panhandle; northeast Weld and Logan Counties in Colorado; and areas of the Eastern Panhandle, Frenchman Basin, and Crescent Lake NWR in western Nebraska.

The weather service cites strong west and northwest winds ranging from 15 to 25 mph, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph, combined with relative humidity levels as low as 13%, as the primary concern for rapid fire spread. Temperatures in some zones are expected to reach the upper 70s.

A Fire Weather Watch for similar conditions is in effect from Wednesday morning through the evening, continuing the elevated risk of wildfire activity.

“Any fires that develop could spread rapidly and be difficult to control,” the NWS said in its alert. “Outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.”

Officials are urging the public to avoid any activity that could cause sparks, including the use of machinery, discarded cigarettes, or fire pits. Residents should also stay alert for any updated warnings or restrictions from local fire officials.

The Red Flag Warnings remain in effect until 7 p.m. MDT Tuesday, with conditions expected to remain volatile into midweek.