Meeker, Colorado — AP
A major wildfire is raging in Colorado, prompting evacuations, including from a prison. The Lee Fire has spread rapidly, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. Officials are urging residents in rural areas to prepare for possible evacuation.
The fire has scorched over 167 square miles—making it one of the largest in state history. Currently, it is only 6% contained, with authorities still monitoring the situation. So far, no injuries or property damage have been reported. Mountains communities were among the first to receive evacuation orders as a precaution.
In total, 179 inmates from the Rifle Correctional Center were moved safely to the Buena Vista Correctional Complex, about 150 miles away. This decision was made to ensure their safety.
Approximately 250 miles west of Denver, the Lee Fire is now the sixth-largest single fire recorded in Colorado. More than a thousand firefighters are actively working to control the flames, aiming to keep the fire west of Colorado 13 and north of County Road 5.
In addition to the Lee Fire, health officials have issued smoke-related air quality warnings due to the blaze and the Elk Fire, which has burned another 23 square miles to the east.
Meanwhile, in Southern California, crews have made significant progress against the Canyon Fire, achieving 62% containment after it threatened nearby communities and resulted in several evacuations. Sadly, three firefighters have sustained injuries during this response, highlighting the dangers they face.
Another major fire, the Gifford Fire, has dominated headlines as California’s largest this year, consuming at least 180 square miles since it began on August 1. As of Sunday, it is 21% contained.
These wildfires serve as a stark reminder of the growing intensity of climate-related disasters. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, the U.S. has experienced a notable increase in wildfire activity, with the number of acres burned doubling in the last two decades. Experts emphasize the importance of wildfire preparedness as conditions continue to worsen.
With climate change playing a significant role in these events, it’s crucial for communities to stay informed and ready. Public awareness and proactive measures can help mitigate the impact of future wildfires.
