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Weekend weather improved conditions for Weston Pass Fire

Posted at 12:04 PM, Jul 10, 2018
and last updated 2018-07-10 14:04:11-04

The Weston Pass Fire burning 9 miles southwest of Fairplay is 63 percent contained Tuesday.

The fire has burned an estimated 13,023 as of Tuesday afternoon. Officials say 579 personnel are aiding in the firefight. 

The blaze broke out just before noon on June 28, but conditions have improved over the past weekend giving firefighters an advantage. Rain on Sunday and higher humidity during the nights have given firefighters access to the spotty part of the fire in the Buffalo Peaks Wilderness (BPW) area, according to a release.

Helicopters dropped approximately 17,010 gallons of gel-enhanced water were dropped on hotspots in and near the BPW area Monday. 

The weather Tuesday is expected to be in the high 70’s with the possibility of wind gusts up to 20 mph. However, thunderstorms are expected mid afternoon.

Highway 285 has been reopened but speeds have been reduced to 50 mph. Drivers are advised not to stop in the fire area. 

Evacuations in the Campground of the Rockies (CORA) area are still in place, the status may change or evolve over the coming days. The Buffalo Peaks Wilderness Area remains closed at this time.

The cause of the fire was determined to be from lighting.