Turkey Tracks Fire Forces Campers to Evacuate in Colorado
The Turkey Tracks Fire in Pike-San Isabel National Forest, Colorado, has forced campsite evacuations and led to traffic closures. Firefighters are actively combating the blaze, currently at 128 acres and 0% contained. Hot and windy conditions contribute to fire risk, with investigations into its cause ongoing.
The Turkey Tracks Fire ignited on Saturday in Pike-San Isabel National Forest, approximately 8 miles north of Woodland Park, Colorado. Firefighters are diligently working to control this wildfire, which has necessitated the evacuation of nearby campers. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is coordinating efforts with the U.S. Forest Service, Office of Emergency Management, and Teller County officials to manage the situation effectively.
Highway 67 has been closed in both directions between U.S. Highway 24 and Triple B Ranch Road as fire conditions remain serious. Due to the hot, dry, and windy weather, authorities are advising utmost caution and recommending that people avoid the area entirely. The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has emphasized the potential for rapid fire spread due to these conditions.
Emergency Services Supervisor Doug Roberts indicated that the fire was initially detected by surveillance cameras on radio towers. “As soon as we saw the fire on our video surveillance system, we let our dispatch know,” emphasizing immediate action to deploy resources.
A brush truck and a helicopter have been deployed to combat the fire. The helicopter’s aerial support was essential in managing the fire’s right flank, where it encountered challenging terrain. As of Sunday morning, the blaze had consumed around 128 acres, with containment efforts still pending, and the fire’s cause is currently under investigation.
The Turkey Tracks Fire in Colorado poses a significant threat, driving evacuations in the Pike-San Isabel National Forest. Despite coordinated firefighting efforts and technology assistance, the blaze remains uncontained and is growing in size. Authorities continue to urge safety measures as investigations into the fire’s cause are underway.
Original Source: www.foxweather.com
