Wildfire
Sand Gulch fire still forcing evacuations and road closures
Posted: Apr 30, 2011 12:17 PM by James H Egbert
News First 5 has been following the developments of the Sand Gulch Fire in the Wetmore area. As reported earlier the fire has grown to more than 500 acres and more than 40 homes have been ordered evacuated. Speaking with incident command at 12:05 pm today, we have learned that Highway 96 has been opened intermittently to allow for some vehicles to get through mainly to aide in the evacuation of the area. The evacuation order remains in place and spokespersons for the Emergency Management System team have not said when the order will be lifted.
Strong gusty winds continue to hamper the progress of firefighters working the fire area. Resources from Colorado Springs have been sent today to add to the total resources already fighting the fire. The fire is burning in very rugged terrain also challenging crews on the ground. Air tankers have been used to aid in progressing toward containment.
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