Severe Drought Conditions Impacting Fort Collins
Key Questions
What is the current status of the Aspen Acres fire?
The Aspen Acres fire near Pueblo has grown to over 89,585 acres, making it the 7th largest in Colorado history, with only 14% containment. It has destroyed 275 structures, prompted evacuation of 11,000 people, and is human-caused, with out-of-state crews now assisting.
Why did Fort Collins proceed with July 4th fireworks?
Fort Collins held its July 4th fireworks at City Park despite the drought, citing natural fire mitigation provided by Sheldon Lake. Record heat and critical fire weather prompted Red Flag Warnings across the state.
What weather is forecast for Colorado next week?
Storms are expected midweek, followed by a prolonged heat wave with triple-digit temperatures. One more chance for gusty storms exists Friday before near-100-degree conditions set in.
What drought and air quality impacts are affecting Fort Collins?
Colorado has declared a statewide drought emergency amid record heat, with air quality alerts issued for the Front Range. Fort Collins is forecast to reach 86°F under these conditions.
How extensive are the wildfire losses in Colorado?
Wildfires including Aspen Acres have burned hundreds of homes across Colorado and Utah, with the Aspen Acres fire alone destroying 275 structures. Hundreds more firefighters are arriving to combat the blazes.
Colorado has declared a statewide drought emergency. Record heat and critical fire weather have prompted Red Flag Warnings; Fort Collins is expected to reach 86°F. The Aspen Acres fire near Pueblo has grown to 89,585+ acres (7th largest in state history), 14% containment, 275 structures destroyed, 11k evacuated, human-caused. Air quality alerts for Front Range. Out-of-state fire crews arriving. Next week's forecast: storms midweek then a heat wave with triple digits. Fort Collins proceeded with July 4th fireworks at City Park, citing natural fire mitigation from Sheldon Lake.