Updated at 1:38 p.m.on Wednesday, June 12, 2024
A wildfire that ignited Tuesday afternoon is burning near the Interlaken Historic District near Twin Lakes, a popular hiking and camping destination, officials said.
The wildfire is covering about 413 acres — a little over half a square mile — data from the U.S. Bureau of Land Management show. Authorities ordered evacuations for people living in the historic district, home to a now-abandoned resort, and residents along County Road 25 on the south side of Twin Lakes. Fire officials have warned residents in Lost Canyon to be ready to evacuate if the wildfire worsens.
Those who need to evacuate are being directed to 6th Street Gym in Leadville, about 12 miles northeast of the fire.
The cause of the fire is unknown. Firefighters with the U.S. Forest Service, Lake County, the city of Vail, and other municipalities have responded to help contain the blaze.
In a statement posted to Facebook, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said the historic resort site is not threatened by the fire, “due to fire staff on site who have provided structure protection efforts.”
Smoke from the wildfire is expected to impact air quality from Leadville to Salida, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. People in the affected area are encouraged to stay indoors, especially if they suffer from heart disease, respiratory illness, or are very old or young.
This is a developing story and may be updated.
