A week that began with summer-like temperatures will most likely end with cold and rain that could help fire conditions across the Front Range, including in Larimer County, where crews continue to battle the Crystal Fire.
The forecast calls for more rain tonight and Thursday with a chance of thunderstorms and highs in the upper-50s, according to the National Weather Service.
Friday should be warmer, with an expected high near 70, but temperatures are expected to drop again by the weekend. A 20 percent chance of rain is expected for Saturday with a chance of snow Saturday night and through Sunday, the weather service said.
Officials with the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office said that increased precipitation as well as calmer winds have helped them in fighting the Crystal fire. High winds yesterday had complicated efforts to fight the blaze, grounding several helicopters and breathing new life into the flames.
The fire has already consumed 3,200 acres and is 15 percent contained. Officials said they are still optimistic they can have the fire under control by the end of the week.
In addition to helping firefighters in Fort Collins, the wetter weather has lifted the red flag warning for most of the state, with only a few areas in southern Colorado still under the warning.
“Anytime we get some precipitation it’s going to help,” said Steve Segin with the Rocky Mountain Area Coordination Center. “Anything helps at this point.”
Mitchell Byars: 303-954-1698 or mbyars@denverpost.com
