Boulder Channel 1 News January 6, 2026 – Boulder County residents are waking up to heightened fire risk today as the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for elevations below 6,000 feet. Gusty winds, dangerously low humidity, and tinder-dry grasses and brush are creating critical fire weather conditions that could allow any spark to rapidly ignite and spread.

Temperatures are expected to reach a high of around 57 degrees this afternoon, further drying out already parched vegetation. Officials are urging everyone to avoid outdoor burning, recreational fires, or any activities that could produce sparks—no exceptions.

Here are some striking views of the dry, fire-prone landscape currently blanketing the Front Range foothills and plains:
This alert comes on the heels of a scary close call just yesterday in the southeastern corner of the county. A fast-moving grass fire—dubbed the Rock Creek/287 Fire—burned 35 acres southwest of the U.S. 287 and Northwest Parkway interchange, briefly prompting evacuation orders for parts of Louisville, Lafayette, and surrounding areas.The blaze was quickly contained by firefighters, and all evacuation orders have now been lifted. No structures were lost, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly conditions can turn dangerous.Smoke rises from yesterday’s grass fire near U.S. 287 in southeastern Boulder County:

But relief is on the way—welcome back, moisture! A significant pattern shift is forecast starting Thursday, when temperatures will plunge and snowfall will arrive. Accumulations of 1-2 inches are expected Thursday, followed by 2-4 inches on Friday. AccuWeather warns of a messy commute Thursday evening and Friday morning as snow mixes with lingering winds.The Boulder Flatirons and surrounding peaks are set to get a fresh coat of winter white soon:
Our thirsty lands have been waiting for this moisture—let’s hope it arrives in time to ease the fire threat and bring some much-needed hydration to the region.Stay tuned to Boulder Channel 1 News for the latest updates on fire conditions, road impacts, and winter weather. And as always, if you see smoke or fire, call 911 immediately.
This is Boulder Channel 1 News—keeping you safe and informed.