Multiple Fires Blaze Across Pikes Peak Region, Prompting Evacuations and Air Quality Advisory
- Alex Derr
- March 31, 2023
- 1:14 am
- No Comments
- News
Fire crews continue to battle multiple fires across the Pikes Peak region, leading to several evacuations and an air quality advisory issued by the Department of Public Health and Environment for southeastern Park County and western Teller County. The ongoing 403IC fire in Park and Teller counties has already spread across 30 acres, prompting authorities to order evacuations for areas stretching from County Road 46 to Wilson Drive and for residents of the Wilson Lakes and Forest Glenn subdivisions. Emergency shelters have been set up at the Woodland Park Community Center and the Lake George Community Center to accommodate affected residents.
As of 5:30 p.m., the fire was approximately half a mile from the Teller County line, with a state firefighting helicopter providing crucial aerial support. Park County officials have advised residents to stay indoors if smoke becomes too thick, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the young, elderly, and those with heart disease or respiratory illness.
The situation was tense near Simla as the 125 fire threatened 500-700 acres before officials lifted evacuations at 6:10 p.m. The swift action of the Elbert County Road and Bridge crew in clearing 25 feet of vegetation played a critical role in preventing the fire from spreading into the town. As of 6:30 p.m., the fire was 50% contained, with firefighting efforts ongoing.
In southeast Colorado Springs, fire crews successfully contained a half-acre wildland fire near Delta and Hancock. Fortunately, no structures were threatened or lost, and no civilians were injured in this incident. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials are urging the public to call 911 only if they see active flames or a plume of smoke. As fire crews work tirelessly to contain the fires and ensure public safety, residents are encouraged to stay informed and follow official updates.
Published at 7:15pm MT, March 30, 2023.
Questions or comments? Email alexderr@thenextsummit.org
Alex is an Eagle Scout, climber, and environmental policy expert located in Denver, Colorado. He created The Next Summit to help others stay safe exploring the mountains and advocate to preserve the peaks for the future. Follow him on Linkedin or Twitter or click here to contact him.
