Current Rocky Mountain Fire Potential Report

Spray plane douses prairie fire east of Lamar-2011 Photo

Denver, CO; April 9, 2015 – The Rocky Mountain Area Coordination Center announced availability of the first 2015 fire potential outlook for the Rocky Mountain Area—Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming.

“This year we are expecting an average to above-average fire season, or more active fire season compared to last year,” said Rocky Mountain Area Coordination Center Fire Meteorologist Tim Mathewson. “A repeat of a 2000, 2002, 2006 and 2012 historic fire season is unlikely at this time; however, the next several weeks are going to be critical in terms of precipitation.”

The driest areas that could experience more fire activity extend from northwest Colorado through Wyoming and South Dakota. Southwest and eastern Colorado benefited from a few snow storms in February and early March, but have experienced below average moisture since then. The Plains have seen little moisture during the last several weeks as well, along with increased wind and low humidity events. Above average temperatures during the last several months has resulted in early depletion of snowpack across the Rocky Mountain Area, with values well below seasonal averages.

April and May are expected to be wetter across the Rocky Mountain Area compared to March. Temperatures through the remainder of the spring are forecast to remain above average, further depleting snowpack earlier than normal. The frequency of wind and low humidity events have remained below 2012 levels, but above 2014 levels; and are expected to continue. If dry conditions persist into April and May, fire potential could increase.

Grass from last year’s growing season is abundant and early snowmelt has already exposed heavier fuels, dead and down woody material ranging from one to eight inches in diameter. Fire risk will remain elevated until green-up, especially east of the divide in the lower foothills, below 8,000 feet in elevation and adjacent plains. These areas will continue to experience windy and dry conditions as storms systems move through the area this spring.