Fire in Pueblo force evacuations, fire department ask people to avoid the area
PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- A fire that broke out east of Pueblo Boulevard near the Arkansas River burned 20 acres Sunday.
The fire broke out around 2 p.m. and forced the evacuation of Paws for Life, an animal shelter, as well as a nearby water treatment plant. Homes in the area were put on pre-evacuation notice.
The Pueblo Fire Department said they had strong structure protection plans in place.
Fire crews said there is a lot of vegetation in the area, and with current wind speeds, they're concerned about the fire spreading. Multiple agencies are on the scene to help with the effort.
High winds were a concern, and residents in the Reservoir Road and Aberdeen neighborhoods, adjacent to the Arkansas River trail system, were advised to evacuate as necessary.
The Colorado State Fairgrounds opened its gates for animals and livestock and the Red Cross announced it was coordinating assistance as needed at Goodnight Elementary School at 624 Windy Way, Pueblo, CO 81005.
Red Cross volunteers are standing by to help people impacted by the fast-moving brush fire in #PuebloCO with immediate needs, supplies & support. #EvacuationCenter is located at the Goodnight Elementary School: 624 Windy Way, Pueblo, CO. Current updates: https://t.co/rfVn8Y0EBz pic.twitter.com/n5Uqi585kf
— cowyredcross (@COWYRedCross) April 11, 2022
At 6:39 p.m., the Red Cross announced the evacuation center at Goodnight Elementary School was closed.
At 6:50 p.m., the Pueblo Fire Department announced the wildfire was 75% contained and burned 18 acres. According to the department, fires and smoke might still be visible overnight from the area but crews will be on site. At that time, all evacuations were lifted.
According to the Pueblo Fire Department, no damage to structures or injuries were reported.
Firefighters are expecting to remain on scene in the area throughout the night to battle any additional flames that may occur. In total, 12 agencies responded.
High above a wildland fire just north of the Arkansas River along Pueblo blvd. Lots of brush and vegetation in this area. Fire crews tell they are actively working on structure protection. @KRDONC13 pic.twitter.com/foCAUP731X
— Sean Rice KRDO (@SeanRiceTV) April 10, 2022
Pueblo Fire continues to ask the community to avoid the area and not gather along Pueblo Boulevard as they work to knock down the flames.
More video from the other side. Fire fighters protecting a half dozen structures here. @KRDONC13 pic.twitter.com/pElwhcNNyn
— Sean Rice KRDO (@SeanRiceTV) April 10, 2022
No word on what caused the fire.
This is a developing story.
