LARIMER COUNTY, Colo. — A prescribed burn in Larimer County has grown out of control, leading to mandatory evacuation orders.
The fire is burning near the Glacier View Meadows subdivision southeast of Red Feather Lakes.
The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office said the mandatory evacuation area is roughly south of County Road 74E and north of Rim Road between County Road 68C on the west and Walkabout Road (Glacier View Gate 5).
The mandatory evacuation area includes Glacier View gates 8, 10, 11, 12 and 13.
Voluntary evacuation orders are in place for Glacier View gates 1, 3, 5 and 6.
People in the evacuation area should leave as soon as possible.
“Do not delay leaving to gather belongings or make efforts to protect your home or business,” the sheriff’s office said.
An evacuation center and shelter has been established at the Livermore Community Center on County Road 74E.
For more information from authorities, text LCEVAC to 888777 or call 970-498-5500.
As of about 6:40 p.m., the fire had burned 175 acres outside the prescribed burn perimeter. It was 10% contained. One shed had been damaged and an estimated 50 homes are threatened.
More than 70 firefighters are at the scene. Crews will remain fighting the fire overnight into Thursday.
The Larimer County Office of Emergency Management said power outages are possible. Those without power can go to the evacuation shelter.
The sheriff’s office said the prescribed burn was part of the Elkhorn Creek Forest Health Initiative and controlled burns have occurred in the area before. It was scheduled to take place between Oct. 15 and 18.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.