
The Breckenridge wildfire evacuation will still stand until Thursday at midday.
The wildfire that broke out near the Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado eventually led to the evacuation of hundreds of homes as the residents on Peak 7 were asked to leave.
People living nearby were also warned that they might have to do the same, as authorities tried to prevent and ensure their safety against the raging fire.
The wildfire broke out on Wednesday somewhere on the Gold Hill Trail area. It was reported in the late morning by a mountain biker and started some 4 miles from the resort. According to reports, it quickly roared and escalated up the side of Peak 2. The wildfire is said to have spewed 125-foot high flames up into the air.
Officials state that one of the most surprising elements of this fire was its intensity. The wildfire spanned across an estimated area measuring 80 acres. It is believed to have been fueled by a combination of the low-humidity and the heavy beetle-kill. It was also whipped and carried by northerly winds.
As a result of the Breckenridge wildfire, authorities decided to evacuate 463 some 1 mile north of the ski resort. While all the Peak 7 homes were evacuated, officials also warned people living nearby that they might also be asked to leave, for their protection. This is according to the Red, White & Blue Fire Protection District.
The base of the Breckenridge resort, which includes businesses, restaurants, and hotels, was not evacuated.
The Breckenridge Wildfire Has Since Cooled Down
Authorities intervened with two heavy tankers and a helicopter. These dropped water and slurry on the fire all throughout the day. Eight Forest Service firefighters were also parachuted in.
The fire eventually cooled and settled on smoldering as temperatures dropped Wednesday night. Reports show that no structures have been burned down. However, the evacuation orders were expected to remain in place until the following day, Thursday, at midday.
This wildfire was just one of several burning in the West on June 05. Authorities will keep watch over it as the forecast remains the same and predicts hot and dry weather.
Image Source: Pixabay