Winds are expected to decrease slightly on Wednesday, but critical fire weather continues in Colorado due to several large wildfires. A red flag warning is in effect for much of the Western Slope and southern Colorado. Rain is unlikely this week, though resources, including aid from out of state, are being deployed.
Key fires include:
-
Snyder Fire (Mesa County)
- Size: 30,209 acres
- Containment: 10%
- Cause: Lightning
- Three firefighters tragically lost their lives. Pre-evacuation orders are in effect, and a community meeting is scheduled.
-
Gold Mountain Fire (Ouray County)
- Size: 14,960 acres
- Containment: 0%
- Cause: Unknown
- Evacuations are ongoing; winds are expected to decrease.
-
Willow Fire (Lake County)
- Size: 2,011 acres
- Containment: 0%
- Cause: Unknown
- Mandatory evacuations are in place; firefighters are working to protect critical infrastructure.
-
Aspen Acres Fire (Custer and Pueblo counties)
- Size: 35,467.9 acres
- Containment: 0%
- Cause: Unknown
- Significant structural damage reported; many evacuations active.
- Ferris Fire (Montezuma and Dolores counties)
- Size: 23,287 acres
- Containment: 0%
- Cause: Lightning
- Firefighting efforts focus on protecting private land.
Several smaller fires are also being monitored. Governor Jared Polis has declared disaster emergencies for multiple fires, and federal aid has been authorized. Evacuation centers are established in affected areas.
