Mandatory evacuations ordered after new wildfire threatens South Estes Park homes – CBS Denver

ESTES PARK, Colo. (CBS4) – Firefighters respond to a new wildfire in Estes Park on Tuesday morning. It was estimated to be 20 acres as of 8:45 a.m. Mandatory evacuations were ordered of homes and businesses in Hermit Park south of the tourist town of Colorado.

(credit: Cameron Moran)

According to CBS4 meteorologist Ashton Altieri, gusts of 45 mph were measured in the Little Valley area where the fire broke out. High winds are forecast to continue there throughout the day.

The emergency evacuation order in Hermit Park affects homes around Little Valley Road and Fish Creek Road, just west of Kruger Rock. A voluntary evacuation order was also issued for the Meadowdale area.

The Estes Park Event Center is currently operating as an evacuation center. It is located at 1125 Rooftop Way.

“Residents and businesses in the Hermit Park area should raise prices due to immediate and impending danger. Evacuate the area immediately and as quickly as possible. Don’t delay leaving to pack up or make an effort to protect your home or business. … Immediate evacuation not only aids your safety but also allows emergency crews better access to the area,” Larimer County emergency managers wrote in a warning.

People are advised to avoid this area.

(credit: CBS)

Thick smoke is seen from Copter4 near the scene of the fire. Smoke can be seen from much of the northern part of the Colorado front range.

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