The Aspen Acres Fire in Rye, Colorado, continues to pose significant threats as thunderstorm-related high winds could hinder containment efforts. As of Sunday, the fire has engulfed over 86,000 acres south of Colorado Springs. Despite starting nearly a week ago, containment is at 13% according to officials.
Evacuation orders have been issued, and residents across Custer, Pueblo, Huerfano, and Fremont counties have been advised to prepare for potential evacuations. Forecasts from the National Weather Service indicate scattered showers and thunderstorms expected in south-central and southwest Colorado. While rain could aid firefighting, it may cause road damage in burned areas and flash floods.
The NWS Pueblo office highlights risks including gusty winds up to 50 mph and lightning from storms. The state faces red flag warnings and air quality alerts, with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment urging residents to limit outdoor activities due to heavy smoke.
Other fires are active across Colorado, notably the Ferris Fire in the southwest, covering over 42,000 acres with 7% containment. The Gold Mountain Fire, also in the southwest, has reached over 25,000 acres and is not contained.
A memorial service took place on Sunday for three firefighters who died battling wildfires on the Colorado-Utah border on June 27. Emily Barker, Sydney Watson, and Nick Hutcherson lost their lives in a burnover incident, where the fire overtakes firefighters and they must take refuge as best as possible. Two survivors were treated for burns. The Governor of Colorado, Jared Polis, has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of the fallen firefighters and acknowledged their sacrifice and heroism on social media.
Southern Utah also battles its own significant wildfire. The Babylon Fire has expanded to over 90,000 acres with zero containment as of Sunday afternoon. Dry, hot conditions with low humidity are forecasted through Monday, complicating firefighting efforts.