Elbert County, Colo. – A fast-moving prairie fire along County Road 169 has burned an estimated 5,000 to 10,000 acres, prompting evacuations and a major response across Elbert and Lincoln counties.
According to the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, forward progress near Highway 71 was stopped as of 5 p.m., and crews are transitioning to patrol and mop-up operations overnight.
The fire began around noon in short grass prairie and cultivated fields under critical fire weather conditions. A Fire Weather Watch, High Wind Warning and Red Flag Warning remain in effect, with westerly gusts reaching up to 55 mph and sustained winds near 35 mph. Minimum relative humidity has dropped to 12%, increasing fire spread risk.
DFPC said aircraft mapping was limited due to high winds, meaning acreage estimates may change once more accurate measurements are available.
Resources on scene include 15 engines, eight tenders, and seven chiefs or overhead personnel from mutual aid departments. Two Type 6 strike teams and one Type 3 strike team have been ordered, with additional crews en route from Douglas County.
One home was initially within an evacuation zone in Elbert County, though officials said both Elbert and Lincoln County evacuations have since been lifted. The area is sparsely populated and primarily agricultural.
The fire’s rapid growth and highway proximity may impact rural commuters and agricultural operations in eastern Colorado.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook and support local independent news.
Have a tip? Message us.
