Mandatory Evacuations Ordered in Northern Colorado Wildfire

A wildfire burning northwest of Fort Collins near Laporte has prompted mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders, with the most urgent evacuations affecting residents near the 4300 block of West County Road 54G. Authorities have instructed people in the mandatory evacuation zone, which includes areas like Vern's Place and part of Rist Canyon Road east of Bellvue, to leave immediately for their safety. Voluntary evacuations are in effect for areas stretching from the Cache La Poudre River area, Rawhide Drive, and north of the U.S. 287 bypass, extending south into Laporte and including local businesses such as Me Oh My Coffee and Pie. Emergency services have advised those under voluntary evacuation to gather essential items and be prepared to depart if conditions worsen. The situation is still developing, with no current details on the fire’s size or rate of spread. Local authorities continue to monitor the fire and update evacuation orders as needed.