The Elk Fire in western Colorado has grown significantly, prompting new mandatory evacuation orders near Lake City as firefighters continue battling the expanding wildfire.
The fire had grown to approximately 5,117 acres by Friday morning, up from an estimated 3,527 acres the previous day. Containment also fell to 40% as the fire expanded in the area northwest of Lake City.
The Elk Fire began on July 9 after lightning sparked the blaze along the upper edge of Hinsdale County. It is currently burning about seven miles northwest of Lake City.
Hinsdale County officials issued a mandatory evacuation order Friday morning for the San Juan Springs subdivision because of the immediate threat posed by the fire.
Residents on San Juan Springs Drive, Rocky Springs Drive, Silver Springs Drive, Elk Road, Deer Trail and Eagle Drive within the designated evacuation area have been ordered to leave.
Several additional areas around Lake City have been placed under pre-evacuation notices as officials monitor the fire’s continued growth. These include parts of downtown Lake City and surrounding residential communities.
Officials are advising people in pre-evacuation areas to be prepared to leave at any time. Residents who feel unsafe because of increasing fire activity or smoke are also being encouraged to consider leaving voluntarily.
The fire is being fought by approximately 52 personnel, with additional resources requested as crews work to slow the fire’s spread and protect communities and infrastructure.
A community meeting is scheduled for Friday evening at Lake City Community School, where incident-management officials and local authorities are expected to provide residents with an update on the fire and evacuation situation.
The continued growth of the Elk Fire highlights the rapidly changing conditions facing communities in western Colorado. Fire behaviour, weather and wind can change quickly, making evacuation readiness particularly important for people living near the fire.
Residents in affected areas are urged to follow official evacuation orders immediately and monitor local emergency alerts for changes to evacuation boundaries.
Quick Facts
Location: Hinsdale County, Colorado
Fire: Elk Fire
Size: Approximately 5,117 acres
Containment: 40%
Location relative to Lake City: About seven miles northwest
Cause: Lightning
Mandatory evacuation: San Juan Springs subdivision
Additional impact: Multiple areas under pre-evacuation notices
Fire personnel: Approximately 52
Status: Active wildfire with evacuations in effect
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