Turner Gulch Fire Expands Amid Colorado Wildfires

Wildfires continue to devastate Colorado and surrounding areas, with the Turner Gulch Fire in Mesa County expanding overnight to over 8,100 acres, fueled by extreme drought, steep terrain, and hot, dry weather. The Deer Creek Fire has grown to nearly 13,000 acres after crossing from Utah into Colorado, joining four other lightning-sparked wildfires on the state's western slope, which have collectively consumed more than 7,000 acres. Evacuations and pre-evacuations have been ordered in affected communities as officials warn that forecasted dry thunderstorms could worsen fire conditions. In Douglas County, innovative firefighting included the use of a BNSF Railway 'fire train' to contain a trackside fire that is now 90% contained after burning 130 acres. Unusual 'firenadoes' were seen during the Airport Fire in the same region, but relatively calm winds limited the damage. Governor Jared Polis has issued a disaster declaration in response to the escalating wildfire emergency.