Mandatory evacuations for several zones now lifted, families see what’s left for the first time

PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) - The Pueblo County Sheriff's Office lifted mandatory evacuation orders on Friday for several areas affected by the "Aspen Acres" fire, transitioning them to a pre-evacuation status.

This change allows many residents who have been displaced for over a week to return to their homes.

→ Check KRDO's full coverage of the "Aspen Acres" wildfire here 

While not all mandatory evacuations have been rescinded, the update offers relief to many families, who can now begin rebuilding their lives after being away from their homes since the fire began.

Residents in the areas of 3R Road, Signal Mountain, Colorado City, Lake Beckwith to Crow Cutoff and east of Highway 165 to Ray Boulevard are now permitted to return.

To access their properties, residents must carry and present a re-entry card at designated traffic control points. Re-entry cards are available at the Disaster Assistance Center, located at 29 Lehigh Avenue.

KRDO13 spoke with evacuees at the Disaster Assistance Center. Valerie, a Colorado City resident, shared her excitement about the news.

“On my way here this morning, the sheriff's department did exactly what they said they were going to do. The minute I was able to get in, they notified me by both phone and text ...people were like cheering. It was exciting,” Valerie said.

Valerie plans to do everything she can to support others who are still awaiting similar good news once she is settled at home.

Despite the eased restrictions, pre-evacuation status means that while residents can return, fire conditions remain active and could change rapidly.

Residents in the pre-evacuation areas should be prepared to leave immediately if new evacuation orders are issued. Residents should stay updated with the latest information on the fire status and evacuation changes.

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