Snow Provides Short-Term Relief for Colorado Fires

Snow fell on Colorado’s two biggest wildfires in a much-needed storm that is expected to dampen the fires and slow their spread for at least a couple of days.   

The Cameron Peak Fire received a foot of snow. Estes Park, threatened by the East Troublesome Fire, received 6 inches as of last night.   

Fire officials expect the snow to significantly decrease fire activity “in the short term,” but said extended precipitation will be needed to fully extinguish the fire.  Fire activity could increase again this week as temperatures rise and the areas start to dry out.   

The Cameron Peak Fire has burned over 208,000 acres and is 65 percent contained.  The East Troublesome Fire just north of Granby and Rocky Mountain National Park, has burned 193,000 acres and is only 10 percent contained.