Raging Wildfires in Southern Colorado: The Latest Developments

Thunderstorms with high winds pose a threat to efforts in containing a massive wildfire affecting southern Colorado. The Aspen Acres Fire burns south of Colorado Springs, spreading across Pueblo and Custer counties. This fire, now over 86,000 acres, began nearly a week ago and is 13% contained as of Sunday morning.

Officials have issued evacuation orders across several counties including Custer, Pueblo, Huerfano, and Fremont. The National Weather Service warns of scattered showers and thunderstorms possibly hitting south central and southwest Colorado on Sunday. While rain might aid firefighting efforts, there are concerns about road damage and flash flooding in burned regions.

The main threats from storms will be gusty outflow winds up to 50 mph and lightning, according to the NWS office in Pueblo.

Red flag warnings and air quality alerts have been issued statewide. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment advises residents to limit outdoor activities due to heavy smoke.

Other wildfires are also burning in Colorado, such as the Ferris Fire in the southwest, now over 42,000 acres and 7% contained. Meanwhile, the Gold Mountain Fire has consumed more than 25,000 acres and remains uncontained.

On Sunday, a memorial service honored three firefighters who died fighting wildfires near the Colorado-Utah border on June 27. Emily Barker, Sydney Watson, and Nick Hutcherson died during a “burnover incident” in which firefighters were overtaken by a fire. Two colleagues survived, sustaining burns. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis ordered flags to be flown at half-staff to honor their sacrifice.

In southern Utah, the Babylon Fire exceeds 90,000 acres and is uncontained. Hot, dry conditions with low humidity persist through Monday, presenting challenges for containment efforts.