This is the Denver7 breaking and developing news blog. Throughout the day, this story will be updated with both minor and large breaking news events that our readers care about. Check back as we continue to update this story.
7:52 a.m.: The South Metro Fire Rescues urges residents "extra caution" as strong wind gusts have prompted a Red Flag Warning in the areas shaded in deep pink.
Portions of South Metro’s District are included in a Red Flag Warning today. Please be extra cautious during outdoor activities especially if they involve sources of heat, create sparks or open flames. pic.twitter.com/E6xTzVEcCD
— SouthMetroFireRescue (@SouthMetroPIO) February 18, 2018
8:22 a.m.: The Colorado Department of Transportation is warning high-profile and empty-load vehicles of a High Wind Advisory on the I-70 Eisenhower Tunnel. Gusts up to 50 mph are reported.
11:22 a.m.: The West Metro Fire Rescue reports there is "very high fire" danger in their district due to windy conditions in the Foothills and mountains.
Warmer temperatures, dry and windy. Very high #fire danger in our district today. Please be careful. It only takes a small spark. #CoWx pic.twitter.com/hDD7gZ5lqW
— WestMetroFire (@WestMetroFire) February 18, 2018
3:47 p.m.: South Metro Fire Rescue is sending three units to a wildland fire in Arapahoe County, south of Bennett near East Quincy Avenue and Kiowa Bennett Road.
3 Units from South Metro are responding to a mutual aid wildland fire in Arapahoe County, south of Bennett near East Quincy Avenue and Kiowa Bennett Road. pic.twitter.com/2Po7xnmjWb
— SouthMetroFireRescue (@SouthMetroPIO) February 18, 2018
3:58 p.m.: The Fire Information Duty Officers of western Jefferson County say a pile burn near Wellington Lake/Green Mountain is visible in the Highway 285 area. There is no threat to homes or vegation.
Be aware - smoke coming from yesterday’s USFS controlled slash pile burn near Wellington Lake/Green Mtn is visible in Hwy 285 area. Multiple fire crews and trucks on scene to keep watch. NO threat. Thank you: @ICFPD @NorthForkFire
— Mountain FIDO (@MountainFIDO) February 18, 2018