The Aspen Acres fire continued to burn across Pueblo and Custer counties Friday morning, July 3. Officials reported the wildfire at 66,896 acres with 0% containment, according to local emergency updates.
Aspen Acres Fire Expands Across Southern Colorado
The fire started Monday, June 29, near Aspen Acres in Custer County. It later spread into Pueblo County as strong winds pushed flames through dry vegetation.
Fire officials said the blaze grew quickly because of low humidity, dry fuels and difficult terrain. Crews also faced dangerous wind conditions that limited aircraft use at times.
The Colorado Sun reported that officials described the fire as human-caused. However, investigators have not released specific details about how it started.
The fire has become one of Colorado’s largest active wildfires. Emergency officials said conditions could still change quickly, especially with shifting winds.
Evacuations Ordered Near the 66,896-Acre Fire
Mandatory evacuations remained in effect Friday for several communities and rural areas. Colorado Public Radio reported that Colorado City was placed under mandatory evacuation after the fire grew overnight.
Evacuation areas have also included Beulah, Rye, Wetmore, San Isabel and nearby mountain communities. Local officials urged residents in evacuation zones to leave immediately.
People under pre-evacuation notice were told to prepare to leave at any time. Emergency managers advised residents to gather medication, important documents, pets and essential supplies.
Officials also asked the public to avoid the fire area. Extra traffic can slow emergency crews and make evacuations harder.
Roads Closed as Crews Battle the Fire
Several roads remained closed because of fire activity and emergency response work. Reported closures included sections of Colorado 96, Colorado 165, Colorado 78 and Colorado 67.
The fire also damaged infrastructure in the area. A bridge on Colorado 165 was damaged, prompting transportation crews to work on emergency repairs.
The Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office said early Friday that the fire was about 20 miles from Pueblo. Officials said there was no immediate threat to Pueblo at that time.
Residents should check county alerts before traveling. Road closures can change as the fire moves.
Structures Lost and Response Efforts Grow
Officials have reported more than 180 structures destroyed or damaged in Pueblo and Custer counties. Damage assessments were still underway, and the number could change.
Hundreds of firefighters and emergency personnel were assigned to the Aspen Acres fire. A complex incident management team from Alaska took command this week to support local and state crews.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis declared a disaster emergency for the fire. The declaration allowed the state to bring in more resources, including National Guard support.
Federal firefighting assistance was also approved to help cover response costs.
What Residents Should Know
Residents near the fire should follow official updates from Pueblo County, Custer County and Colorado emergency agencies. Fire conditions can shift fast during hot, dry and windy weather.
Smoke may also affect air quality across nearby communities. Children, older adults and people with asthma or heart conditions should limit outdoor exposure when smoke is heavy.
The Aspen Acres fire remains a major emergency for southern Colorado. Families in affected areas should follow evacuation orders, avoid closed roads and rely on verified local alerts.