Emergency crews in Custer County continue working to contain a wildfire burning off County Road 185 near Verdemont, northwest of Westcliffe.
As of 11 p.m. last night, the fire had grown to approximately 80 acres and was reported to be 80% contained. The incident has prompted a multi-agency response, with crews assisting from across the region, including Salida. Officials have classified the blaze as a Type 4 incident, indicating a moderate complexity fire requiring coordinated resources.
The Custer County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation orders within a two-mile radius of the fire. Mandatory evacuations remain in effect for areas south of the fire, including regions near County Roads 170 and 179 and Chalice Drive.
Pre-evacuation notices have also been issued for residents in Verdemont and along County Road 182 north of the fire. Road closures are currently in place throughout the evacuation zone, which includes approximately 98 structures.
At this time, no homes have been lost and no injuries have been reported.
Officials say the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Photo Courtesy of Custer County Sheriff’s Office
