DENVER (KDVR) — An uncommon weather phenomenon was seen in several areas in and around Colorado as wildfires continue to spread thousands of acres.
It’s known as a “firenado,” which is officially known as a fire whirl, according to Pinpoint Weather Meteorologist Greg Perez. The phenomenon was dubbed a “firenado” because it looks like a tornado that’s made from fire.
Perez said they occur when hot air rises rapidly in columns. As more hot air rises quickly, the wind starts to spin, which creates a fire whirl. It’s essentially hot air rising, which then fuels the flames.
A firenado was spotted by the South Metro Fire Rescue after a wildfire broke out near 9844 Titan Court, burning over 100 acres. As of Monday morning, it’s about 90% contained. Perez said firenados can be dangerous as they can spread quickly and create more sparks that could set off wildfires.
While it’s considered unusual, it wasn’t the only firenado recently spotted in and around Colorado. On Sunday, one X user posts a video of several firenados near each other around Louviers.
Meanwhile, Utah Fire Info captured a video of a firenado that formed on Saturday on the border of Utah and Colorado from the Dear Creek Fire. It said there was a wildfire smoke “vortex,” where flames went high into the air and caused an uncommon weather phenomenon that looked like a tornado. The fire, which started in Utah, has since moved into Colorado in Montrose County.
Several other wildfires are still active in the state, including the Sowbelly Fire in the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area, the South Rim Fire in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and wildfires in Mesa County.