A human-caused wildfire ravages the Highland Lakes Subdivision in Divide, Colorado, leading to firefighters’ battle to contain the blaze. The investigation is ongoing. Residents were warned to evacuate immediately.
Wildfire Devastation and Evacuations
A wildfire, suspected to be human-caused, has severely impacted Divide, Colorado, resulting in the destruction of at least one home and the evacuation of approximately 700 others in the wooded Highland Lakes Subdivision. Authorities report that 166 acres have burned, with containment efforts currently at 15%. This crisis has mobilized both ground teams and aircraft, including helicopters and air tankers, as they coordinate to combat the relentless flames.
In response to the severity of the situation, residents have been evacuated, with temporary access allowed to retrieve essential items like medication. The looming threat of changing weather conditions, particularly high winds, could hinder containment efforts. While snow is forecasted, officials remain skeptical about its effectiveness in fully extinguishing the fire. Furthermore, if residents cannot return home by Wednesday, provisions may allow access to mailed ballots.
Approximately 700 homes are under mandatory evacuation orders after a wildfire sparked in Divide on Monday, according to the Teller County Sheriff’s Office. https://t.co/LYu4yqofuU
— The Denver Post (@denverpost) October 29, 2024
Efforts to Control the Blaze
Firefighting teams are using a combination of strategies on the ground and in the air to protect homes and establish fire lines around the subdivision. Ground crews are stationed throughout the area, supported by air tankers dropping water to curb the spread. Meanwhile, changes in wind patterns continue to pose a significant risk to the effectiveness of these efforts. The firefighting initiative underscores the severity of the situation as teams work tirelessly to safeguard the community.
“We’re doing everything possible to get this fire knocked down quickly and under control because we are worried about the turn in the weather,” Sheriff Jason Marksell said.
The financial impact of this fire is monumental, with the estimated value of the homes evacuated totaling $300 million. As residents and firefighters grapple with the immediate dangers, the community also faces the daunting task of recovering from this disaster.
TAKE A LOOK: Over 700 homes are currently threatened by the growing Highland Lakes Fire, burning 90 acres near Divide. One viewer shared with us the harrowing sight as her family rushed to evacuate the area yesterday. pic.twitter.com/6k3a6wihty
— KRDO13 (@KRDO_13) October 29, 2024
Investigation and Community Alert
The fire’s origin is still under thorough investigation, with initial findings pointing towards it being a human-caused incident. Sheriff Jason Marksell has declared that the fire is being treated as a criminal act, though whether it was accidental or intentional remains to be seen. The investigation aims to bring clarity to the circumstances surrounding the fire’s ignition.
As the community remains evacuated, authorities continue to provide updates and support for those affected. Many residents, although displaced, are hopeful for a swift resolution and return to their properties once it is safe. Public attention is now focused on the outcome of the investigation and the efforts to prevent future incidents.
