Smoke from wildfires burning in Utah, Arizona, and California is expected to drift into Colorado this week, creating hazy skies and potential air quality issues across the region. While the largest fires are out of state, several active fires are burning in Colorado:
- Elk Creek Fire (Rio Blanco County)
- Declared a disaster emergency by Governor Jared Polis
- Sparked by lightning on Saturday
- Burning southeast of Meeker
- Has reached 600 acres
- Coulter Creek Fire (Garfield County)
- Broke out yesterday around noon near Carbondale
- Prompted evacuation orders
- Estimated at 80 acres
- No structural damage or injuries reported
- Turner Gulch Fire (Mesa County)
- Burning northeast of Gateway, off Highway 141
- Now spans over 21,000 acres
- 50% containment reported
Firefighting efforts are underway across the Western Slope, with air and ground crews responding aggressively to contain flames and protect communities. Residents are urged to stay informed on evacuation notices and monitor air quality alerts in their area.
