Denver, CO
Lanes open after Denver-area forest fire forces evacuations, closes highway
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) – A wildfire burning just southwest of Denver forced evacuations and a highway shutdown Sunday afternoon.
According to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the Twin Forks Fire broke out along the south side of US-285 and N. Turkey Creek around 2:30 p.m..
Wildland fire in #Jeffco along Hwy 285. Fire size is currently 3 acres and growing. Hwy 285 closed in both directions for fire suppression efforts. Two helicopters working the fire along with multiple ground crews. Door to door evacuations along S. Turkey Creek to Hwy 285. pic.twitter.com/omfLKR4EbA
— Jeffco Sheriff (@jeffcosheriffco) July 28, 2024
Officials said 40 firefighters and 12 engines were on scene to battle the flames.
The blaze also forced the closure of US-285 for a time. One lane opened up in each direction around 3:45 p.m..
** Traffic Alert ** US-285 northbound and southbound are closed due to a forest fire burning near the highway. Northbound is closed at milepost 243, while southbound is closed at milepost 244. Visit https://t.co/Zfq9tScVuk for up to date road information. pic.twitter.com/ZRn4sEEl5o
— Colorado State Patrol (@CSP_News) July 28, 2024
Officials urge travelers to check the Colorado Department of Transportation’s traveler map for updates.
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