There are early signs of fire danger in southern Colorado even before the spring season, said 9NEWS Weather Impact meteorologist Chris Bianchi. Colorado has fire weather warnings in place Monday for parts of northern and southern Colorado. Red Flag Warnings have been issued for Colorado's northern Front Range and parts of the northeast plains. Another fire weather warning is in place to the south of Denver, for parts of the higher country in Teller, Fremont, and Chaffee Counties. Southern Colorado faces an unusual fire risk on Monday as the Red Flag Warnings have been issued for areas typically snow-covered this time of year, but is now experiencing unseasonably dry conditions and below-average snowpack levels. “This is the unusual part,” said 9NEWS Weather Impact meteorologist Chris Bianchi. “Normally, this time of year, that area is snow-packed and snow-covered. However, southern Colorado is lagging at about 70% of its seasonal snowpack.” The lack of snow combined with gusty winds up to 35 mph and low humidity has heightened fire danger. Monday's Red Flag Warning extends from noon to 6 p.m., covering areas west of Interstate 25. Fire weather is a combination of dry fuels, warm temperatures, gusty winds and low relative humidity. It makes it easier for wildfires to start and in makes it harder to put them out. Be smart and avoid anything with a spark outdoors, especially if you're in an area under a fire weather warning. While this early-season fire risk raises concerns about a potentially active wildfire season, there is some hope. With more active weather patterns expected next week, the region may see some relief from its ongoing drought conditions. “Later this week, we’re going to get a pretty good hit of snow in those areas on Thursday and Friday,” Bianchi said. More local videos here: https://youtube.com/@9news Subscribe to NEXT: https://youtube.com/@Nexton9NEWS Stay connected: 9NEWS Website: https://www.9news.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ilike9news X: https://x.com/9NEWS Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/9newsdenver/ Download the 9NEWS App: https://www.9news.com/appredirect/ Sign up for the 9NEWSLETTER: https://www.9news.com/email 9NEWS (KUSA) is located in Denver, Colorado.