Red Flag Warning and Fire Weather Watch Issued for Parts of Nebraska and Wyoming

A Red Flag Warning and Fire Weather Watch are in effect for several counties in Nebraska and Wyoming, indicating a heightened risk of wildfire. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Cheyenne has issued these alerts due to a combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and expected poor overnight humidity recovery.

Current Red Flag Warning

The Red Flag Warning is currently in effect until 8 PM Mountain Daylight Time (MDT) this evening, Tuesday, March 17, 2026, for fire weather zones 430, 431, 432, 433, 436, and 437. During this period, sustained winds of 25 to 30 mph are expected, with gusts up to 40 mph. Relative humidity levels will range from 18 to 22 percent. These conditions create a high potential for rapid fire spread, and outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.

Upcoming Fire Weather Watch

A Fire Weather Watch has been issued from Wednesday morning through Saturday evening for the same fire weather zones (430, 431, 432, 433, 436, and 437). This watch indicates that critical fire weather conditions are forecast to develop. Sustained winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph, are anticipated. Humidity levels are expected to drop to between 10 and 15 percent. Poor overnight humidity recoveries are expected throughout the duration of the watch, and well above-average temperatures will contribute to dry conditions.

High Wind Warning for Laramie County

In addition to the fire weather concerns, a High Wind Warning is in effect for central Laramie County and the Laramie Valley from 6 AM to 6 PM MDT today, Tuesday, March 17, 2026. West winds of 30 to 40 mph are expected, with gusts up to 65 mph. These strong winds pose a hazard to transportation, particularly for lightweight or high-profile vehicles such as campers and tractor-trailers. Areas of blowing dust may also reduce visibility.

Understanding Fire Weather Zones

The National Weather Service utilizes Fire Weather Zones to delineate areas with similar fire weather potential. These zones are based on public forecast zones and are used for issuing fire weather forecasts and warnings NWS Fire Weather Zones. Updates to these zone boundaries were scheduled for implementation on April 16, 2026, due to technical issues NWS Fire Weather Zones.

Safety Precautions

A Fire Weather Watch signifies that critical fire weather conditions are forecast. Residents in affected areas should stay informed about the latest forecasts and be prepared for potential Red Flag Warnings. Any outdoor activities that could spark a fire should be avoided. It is crucial to heed all warnings and recommendations from local authorities.

Resources

• National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Fire Behavior Field Reference Guide
• USGS Fire Danger Viewer