Highland Lakes Wildfire in Teller County Reaches 60% Containment

Fire Update

Containment Progress

At present, the Highland Lakes wildfire in Teller County, which has scorched 166 acres near Cedar Mountain, is 60% contained, according to officials.

Destruction and Evacuations

A home has been confirmed destroyed by the person-caused Highland Lakes fire, prompting the evacuation of approximately 700 residents in the area. Thankfully, there have been no reported injuries thus far.

Arson Investigation

Criminal Charges Pending

The individual responsible for igniting the fire is facing felony arson charges and is currently under active criminal investigation, as stated by Sheriff Jason Mikesell of Teller County.

Fire Behavior

Sheriff Mikesell described the Highland Lakes fire as one of the most aggressive incidents he has witnessed during his tenure due to its location within a residential area, exacerbated by strong winds and abundant grass growth from a wet spring.

Response Efforts

Firefighting Operations

Firefighters worked tirelessly until midnight on Monday to protect homes in Teller County and establish containment lines, with some residences experiencing flames reaching their back doors during the firefighting efforts.

Challenges Ahead

Concerns about strong winds persist among fire crews as gusts of up to 60 mph were recorded in the area on Tuesday, posing challenges to containment efforts.

Evacuation Updates

Return Possibilities

Pre-evacuation orders have been lifted for several areas including Spring Valley and Aspen Moors, while residents in mandatory evacuation zones may be permitted to return home on Wednesday morning based on fire behavior assessments.

Emergency Declaration

Resource Mobilization

Following an emergency declaration by Teller County officials, state resources and over 100 firefighters from multiple local agencies are actively engaged in combating the Highland Lakes fire using air tankers, helicopters, and bulldozers.

Additional Information

Evacuation Areas and Road Closures

Notable mandatory evacuation zones include Cedar Mountain Road north to Golden Bell and various other locations, while County Road 511 and County Road 51 remain closed between County Road 5 and County Road 512 for ongoing fire operations.