WASHINGTON COUNTY HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK

 ...WINDY...FIRE DANGER...AND MOUNTAIN SNOW...  This hazardous weather outlook is for northeast and north central Colorado.  .DAY ONE...Today and Tonight  Strong and gusty southwest winds will spread over most of the area through this afternoon, resulting in critical fire weather conditions in/near the Denver metro area and Palmer Divide. Avoid any outdoor activity that may produce a spark or flame, as Red Flag Warnings are in effect for those areas. Wind will gust to 50 mph or more in areas from Park County through the Palmer Divide area and adjacent areas into the southern and eastern sections of the Denver metro area. Areas of blowing dust may occur in Lincoln County with significant reductions to visibility in spots. Strong winds will also develop in the foothills and continue overnight.  Widespread snow showers will spread across the high country this afternoon and evening, and continue off/on overnight. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for the Park and northern Gore Ranges, including Rabbit Ears Pass. Slick travel conditions may also develop in the I-70 Mountain Corridor overnight.  .DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Friday through Wednesday  Windy conditions are expected in the mountains and plains on Friday with gusts up to 50 mph across the plains and up to 70 mph over the mountains. Expect red flag conditons across portions of the plains, mainly over the Palmer Divide Friday afternoon. Snow will continue in the mountains with winter driving conditions expected. The wind and snow will diminish Friday night.  Expect dry and warmer conditions for this weekend and into early next week along with continued gusty winds in the mountains. The next chance of snow will return to the mountains late Monday and Tuesday, and there will be a chance of rain or snow showers at lower elevations early next week.  .SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...  Spotter activation will not be needed. Any reports of strong winds will be appreciated.