National Interagency Fire Center Reports High Wildfire Activity, Evacuations, and Red Flag Warnings Across Western US.

The United States is experiencing a highly active and severe wildfire season, with the National Preparedness Level at 4. Since yesterday, 274 new fires were reported, and firefighters are working to suppress 35 large fires nationwide, with evacuations in place in three geographic areas. The Aspen Acres Fire in Colorado is the nation's top priority, having burned nearly 48,000 acres, destroyed over 160 structures, and forced the evacuation of approximately 2,200 residents. Southeastern Utah is under a 'Particularly Dangerous Situation' alert due to wind gusts of 40-50+ mph, hot temperatures, and extremely dry air, leading to explosive fire growth potential. Widespread Red Flag Warnings are in effect across Southern California (including the Mojave Desert and Death Valley), Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado, with relative humidity dropping as low as 5% to 15%. Active fuels and fire behavior advisories are also in place for Colorado, Southern Wyoming, Eastern Nevada, Utah, and the Arizona Strip.