Several large and fast-moving wildfires continue to burn across Colorado, forcing evacuations, road closures, and sending smoke across much of the state.
The Aspen Acres Fire burning near Rye along the Pueblo and Custer county line has grown to more than 23,000 acres with no containment. More than 4,200 people have been evacuated. Mandatory evacuation orders remain in effect for the communities of Rye and Beulah, as well as Bishop Castle, San Isabel, and areas south of Highway 96. Fire officials say the blaze expanded rapidly yesterday, fueled by wind gusts of up to 60 miles per hour.
In Lake County, the Willow Fire has grown to approximately 1,900 acres and remains uncontained. The fire began Sunday in the Mount Massive Wilderness. Evacuations remain in effect for County Road 4, all trails accessed from the Leadville Fish Hatchery, and all campgrounds surrounding Turquoise Lake. Pre-evacuation notices remain in place for the Grand West area, Mountain View East and West, Turquoise Lake Estates, Silver Hills, and portions of County Roads 4, 9, and 17. The Colorado Mountain College gym in Leadville is serving as the evacuation center.
The 11 Fire burning south of Guffey near the Teller County line has reached approximately 103 acres. Officials have lifted evacuation orders for that fire.
Meanwhile, the Gold Mountain Fire near Ouray has grown to more than 8,000 acres with no containment. U.S. Highway 550 remains closed in the area.
The National Weather Service says hot, dry conditions and gusty winds are expected to continue into the weekend, creating dangerous fire weather across much of Colorado.
In response to the heightened wildfire danger, the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service have joined Lake, Chaffee, Park, and Fremont counties in implementing Stage 2 Fire Restrictions.
Under Stage 2 Restrictions, all open fires and campfires are prohibited, including those in permanent fire rings. Explosive targets and incendiary devices are also prohibited. Propane and liquid-fueled stoves equipped with an on/off valve are still permitted.
