High Wind Warning Issued for Southeast Colorado; Gusts Up to 65 MPH Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Pueblo has issued a High Wind Warning for portions of Southeast Colorado. The alert is classified as a severe weather event with a high likelihood of occurrence.

Affected Areas

The warning covers a broad area of Southeast Colorado, including the following counties and vicinities:

• Fremont County: Canon City Vicinity and Eastern Fremont County
• Pueblo County: Pueblo Vicinity and areas below 6,300 feet
• Las Animas County: Trinidad Vicinity, Western Las Animas County below 7,500 feet, and Eastern Las Animas County
• Crowley County
• Otero County: La Junta Vicinity
• Kiowa County: Western and Eastern Kiowa County
• Bent County: Las Animas Vicinity
• Prowers County: Lamar Vicinity
• Baca County: Springfield Vicinity

What You Should Do

Residents in the warning area are advised to take the following precautions:

• Remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm and stay away from windows.
• Watch for falling debris and tree limbs that may be downed by the wind.
• Use extreme caution if you must drive, particularly if operating a high-profile vehicle.

Expected Conditions

West winds are forecast to reach sustained speeds of 30 to 40 mph. Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 65 mph. These damaging winds may blow down trees and power lines, potentially leading to power outages. Additionally, areas of blowing dust may significantly reduce visibility to under a mile at times, making travel difficult.

Timeline

The High Wind Warning is effective from 7:00 AM MST on Tuesday, February 17, through 6:00 PM MST on Tuesday evening.