The wildfire in Southern Colorado has grown extensively, requiring new evacuations. Local authorities report that the fire, which started on Monday, has destroyed over 180 structures, including homes, and has burned through 55,405 acres across Pueblo and Custer counties. At a news conference on Wednesday, officials emphasized that this wildfire is the nation’s top firefighting priority.
Strong winds and a lack of moisture have contributed to the fire’s expansion. Sady Stinchcomb, from Three Sisters Tavern & Grill in Colorado City, expressed her distress, stating, “It breaks my heart every day, just seeing it grow and grow, and there’s nothing you can do about it either.”
Evacuations have affected areas such as Buelah, Rye, and San Isabel, with expansions to areas north and south of the fire. Southern Fremont County is also under pre-evacuation notice. Residents like Derick Collins have been packing their belongings as new evacuation orders were issued. Collins mentioned, “We got the 911 call at about 2:30,” adding, “I packed what I could and got the expensive stuff, but you can’t load everything.” The wildfire remains 0% contained, increasing concerns about potential damage.
Local businesses, including Three Sisters Tavern & Grill, are actively assisting the community. On Wednesday, staff provided food, water, and a place for evacuees and first responders to gather. Manager Jolee Ortiz shared, “It just kind of felt surreal, like [everywhere] you look around, campers are loaded up, everybody’s got their ATVs on trailers, so it was just kind of like panic mode.” Ortiz noted heightened concern following the Aspen Acres Fire’s commencement.
Donations have poured in, with more than $1,000 collected to aid first responders and affected residents. Investigators attribute the fire to human activity and are working to understand the exact circumstances. The community continues to rally together, providing support to those impacted by this devastating event.
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