PARK COUNTY, Colo. — Two wildfires burning in the mountains west of the Interstate 25 corridor are being fought from both the ground and air.
The first wildfire is burning near Bailey.
According to the Elk Creek Fire Department, it is located near Park County Road 64.
Evacuation orders are in place for about 25 homes in the Payne Gulch and Happy Top Road areas.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is helping with evacuations.
An emergency shelter was open at the Shawnee Community Center/VFW Post 8661. However, about 7 p.m., the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office said it had closed.
Both Elk Creek and Platte Canyon Fire Protection District are battling the fire. They are being assisted by South Metro Fire Rescue and West Metro Fire Rescue.
Smoke can be seen in the Bailey area.
Authorities have labeled the fire the 64A Fire. As of shortly before 7 p.m., it had burned 12 acres, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the Park County Sheriff, the fire was started by two people from Denver target shooting with rifles. The sheriff says the men will not face charges because they reported the fire immediately. However, the Forest Service may hold them financially responsible.
Additionally, there is a fire burning near Red Feather Lakes in Larimer County.
The McNay Fire has prompted voluntary evacuations for a few homes in the area between Glacier View Gate 1 and County Road 37.
According to the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, the fire had grown to roughly 400 acres as of 5:15 p.m. It started as a car fire that spread to surrounding vegetation.
Sixty-five people are fighting the fire. As of 5:15 p.m., it was 7% contained.
Crews have de-energized power lines in the area as a precaution.