In what conditions are fires most likely to occur in Colorado?

Fires are most likely to occur in Colorado under conditions of high temperatures and low humidity. These environmental factors create an atmosphere that is conducive to fire ignition and spread. High temperatures can cause vegetation to dry out significantly, while low humidity means that there is less moisture in the air and the fuels, such as grass and shrubs, are more prone to combustion.

In contrast, heavy rainfall creates a damp environment that generally suppresses fire ignition and spread, making it less likely for fires to occur. High humidity similarly adds moisture to the air and fuels, further inhibiting the chances of fire. Additionally, winter months with snow cover typically result in the opposite effect, where moisture content is high, and vegetation is less likely to ignite due to cold temperatures and snow acting as a natural barrier against fire. Thus, the specific combination of high temperatures and low humidity is what primarily contributes to the increased risk of wildfires in Colorado.