KUSA - Another windy and dry forecast is expected east of the Divide, elevating the risk for wildfires, according to the Colorado weather forecast.

A RED FLAG WARNING has been issued for the northern foothills and northern Front Range through Tuesday afternoon.

Strong winds are once again a part of the forecast for residents along the northern foothills and northern Front Range. Winds are expected to reach speeds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts of 40 mph in counties like Larimer, Boulder, Jefferson, Broomfield, Central and Weld. The RED FLAG WARNING will be in effect from noon through 6pm on Tuesday. Humidity levels are expected to drop as low as 10 percent with the most active winds expected during this warning period. The fire danger should diminish by early Tuesday evening as winds become lighter and humidity levels rise.

Very seasonal temperatures are expected on Tuesday with highs rising in the mid 50s with mostly sunny skies. Wind speeds around the metro area will be from 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. For Wednesday, the start of spring, temperatures will be about ten degrees warmer with partly cloudy skies and lighter winds.

The next storm system will arrive Thursday and bring a chance for snow to the high country through Friday. Rain or snow is possible at lower elevations from this system. A stronger storm is expected to develop on Friday and early Saturday which could bring a chance for snow over all of Colorado, with colder temperatures through the weekend.

(KUSA-TV © 2013 Multimedia Holdings Corporation)