Wildfires break out across the Front Range

It was just days ago that many of us were reassuring out-of-state friends and relatives that, no, not all of Colorado was on fire. Today, we might not be so self-assured.

In addition to the High Park Fire that has consumed more than 87,000 acres outside Fort Collins and claimed more than 250 homes to make it the most destructive fire in state history, new blazes have exploded outside Boulder and Colorado Springs, fueled by gusty winds and record temperatures. The Waldo Canyon Fire near Colorado Springs leaped over hastily-prepared fire perimeters, burned houses and prompted the evacuation of 32,000 residents. It’s estimated to be more than 6,000 acres and growing rapidly.

In Boulder, the Flagstaff Fire, while less dramatic, is no less concerning. At this writing, the fire is uncontained, but so far less than 300 acres in size. However, it’s only a mile and a half from Boulder city limits and 28 homes have been evacuated.

Fire crews across the state are worried about weather. Temperatures are expected to be in the high 90s for the next several days with very low humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms may make matters worse; they aren’t expected to produce much moisture, but could spark more fires through lightening strikes.

There are currently 29 wildfires burning across the country. Gov. John Hickenlooper has called this the worst fire season in state history.

For details on the various fires, check out the websites below and check this page for updates:

• The Flagstaff Fire official information site. Follow on Twitter #flagstafffire

• The Waldo Fire information site at the Colorado Springs Gazette. Follow on Twitter #waldocanyonfire

• The High Park Fire official information site. Follow on Twitter #highparkfire

Update– 10:57 a.m.: The city of Boulder has cancelled fireworks for the Fourth of July.

250 personnel from 50 agencies are fighting the fire. Evacuees can call the Emergency Operations Center at 303-413-7730 for fire and evacuation information. Check out the fire live at boulderflatironcam.com