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Park County blaze partially contained at 1,100 acres
The Springer Fire was reported as 23 percent contained at 1,100 acres Tuesday evening.
By Summit Voice
SUMMIT COUNTY — Despite extreme fire weather conditions, firefighters were able to hold the line on Colorado’s newest wildfire, limiting growth of the 1,100-acre Springer Fire and achieving 23 percent containment.
The cause of the fire, burning about 3.5 miles southwest of Lake George in a popular summer recreation area, is still under investigation.
About 400 firefighters are battling the blaze which has threatened several residential areas. The fire is burning in timber and grasslands with fire conditions at exceptional levels. In some parts of Colorado, fuel moisture are at record low levels for this time of year and warm, dry conditions are expected to continue.
Even as fire crews establish secure fire lines, the fire is still running, torching and spotting within the perimeter. Starting Wednesday, crews plan to Initiate mop up and patrol on the northern flank of fire.
The fire forced the evacuation of numerous residences, resorts and camps in the area, putting a hit on the summer recreation business in the popular area around Lake George and in Elevenmile Canyon.
According to the Park County Sheriff’s Office, “Elevenmile Canyon including Camp Alexander has been evacuated and will remain closed to all recreation and traffic. Park County has issued a mandatory evacuation for Wagon Tongue subdivision, Echo Valley Subdivision, Circle C Ranch, Beaver Valley Ranch , Beaver Valley Estates, Homes located on County Rd 98 and 403.”
Teller County has issued a voluntary evacuation notice for Wilson Lakes subdivision, Forest Glen Subdivision and Blue Mountain. An evacuation center has been set up by the Red Cross at the High School in Woodland Park. Evacuees can take large animals to the Fairgrounds in Cripple Creek and small animals can be taken to the Teller County Animal Shelter.”
Filed under: climate and weather, Colorado, Drought, forest fires Tagged: | Colorado extreme fire conditions, Colorado wildfires, Lake George fire Colorado, Park County Fire, Springer Fire
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