Aspen Acres Firenear Custer County, CO

As of Oct 23, 2026, 11:49 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire near Rye, Colorado has reached 94% containment and is receiving its final update barring significant changes in fire behavior. A UAS flight detected no remaining heat within the fire footprint, though full containment is not expected until measurable snow covers the uncontained area for an extended period.

• Size: 102,007 acres (per Fremont County Emergency Management · Facebook)
• Location: 10 miles northwest of Rye, CO (per Fremont County Emergency Management · Facebook)
• Cause: Human-caused (per Fremont County Emergency Management · Facebook)
• Containment: 94% (per Fremont County Emergency Management · Facebook)
• Fire behavior: A recent UAS flight detected no remaining heat within the fire footprint. Uncontained portions lie in steep, snag-heavy terrain considered among the most hazardous environments in wildland firefighting. Full containment is expected only once measurable snow is on the ground for an extended period in the uncontained area. (per Fremont County Emergency Management · Facebook)
• Tactics: Firefighters are removing hose, pumps, and other equipment from the line, and removing hazard trees along containment lines, roads, and trails. (per Fremont County Emergency Management · Facebook)
• Smoke: Smoke impacts are expected to remain minimal. (per Fremont County Emergency Management · Facebook)
• Closures: The Aspen Acres Fire Closure Order was reduced as of Oct. 23, 2026. Hazards in burned areas include falling trees and limbs, loose rocks, unstable ground, trail obstructions, and increased slide risk after heavy rain or winter storms. (per Fremont County Emergency Management · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Oct 21, 2026, 3:10 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has entered a recovery phase, with federal and state disaster assistance programs now available to those impacted.

• Businesses, homeowners, and renters impacted by the Aspen Acres Fire may be eligible for SBA disaster loan assistance under SBA Disaster Declaration CO-20032, approved October 14, 2026. The deadline to apply is December 14, 2026 (per @COEmergency · X).
• Private nonprofits and faith-based organizations may be eligible for SBA disaster loan assistance under SBA Disaster Declaration CO-20034, approved September 4, 2026. The deadline for Physical Damage filing is November 1, 2026, and the deadline for Economic Injury filing is June 1, 2027. Primary counties are Custer, Dolores, Ouray, and Pueblo (per Colorado · news article).
• On September 4, 2026, President Trump approved a Major Disaster Declaration (DR-4944-CO) for Colorado Wildfires, Flooding and Mudslides, covering the period June 27 – July 29, 2026. The FEMA Public Assistance Grant Program was approved; the Individual Assistance program and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program were denied (per Colorado · news article).
• The FEMA Public Assistance Grant Program reimburses 75 percent of eligible expenses for state, local government, and private nonprofit organizations for emergency work and repair or replacement of damaged facilities (per Colorado · news article).

🤖 AI summary of official posts and linked news coverage; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Oct 21, 2026, 9:06 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres fire has entered a recovery phase, with disaster loan assistance now available to affected residents.

• SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs) are open for the Aspen Acres fire in two locations (per @COEmergency · X):
• Custer County: Wetmore Community Library, 95 County Road 393, Wetmore, Colo. 81253, at the junction of Highway 67 and Highway 96, open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (per @COEmergency · X)
• Pueblo County: Pueblo County Government, 201 West 8th Street, Suite 310, Pueblo, Colo., open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (per @COEmergency · X)
• Walk-ins are welcome, and in-person appointments can be scheduled in advance (per @COEmergency · X).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Oct 20, 2026, 8:57 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has entered a recovery phase, with disaster loan assistance available to affected residents.

• SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOC) are open, with walk-ins welcome and in-person appointments available in advance (per @COEmergency · X).
• In Custer County, a DLOC is located at the Wetmore Community Library, 95 County Road 393, Wetmore, Colo. 81253, at the junction of Highway 67 and Highway 96, open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (per @COEmergency · X).
• In Pueblo County, a DLOC is located at Pueblo County Government, 201 West 8th Street, Suite 310, Pueblo, Colo., open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (per @COEmergency · X).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Oct 19, 2026, 7:12 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres fire has prompted federal disaster assistance to be made available for affected residents and businesses. The U.S. Small Business Administration has opened a Disaster Assistance Center in the area to help those impacted.

• Sheriff Smith met with SBA officials at a new Disaster Assistance Center located at the Wetmore Community Center, open 9 AM to 6 PM daily (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• A second SBA center is available at 201 W. 8th Street, Pueblo. Applicants may visit any SBA center regardless of where they live (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Those affected by the Aspen Acres fire may qualify for low-interest disaster loans, including Business Physical Disaster Loans, Economic Injury Disaster Loans, and Home Disaster Loans for homeowners and renters (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Sheriff Smith confirmed that businesses in Custer County and other eligible counties can apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help cover losses caused by the fire, evacuations, and highway closures (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Eligible counties include Crowley, Custer, El Paso, Fremont, Huerfano, Las Animas, Lincoln, Otero, Pueblo, and Saguache (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Interest rates start at 2.875% for homes, 4.0% for businesses, and 3.625% for nonprofits; individual rates and eligibility depend on each applicant's situation (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Oct 19, 2026, 8:53 AM MDT: SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Centers have opened to assist those affected by the Aspen Acres Fire.

• SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOC) opened today, Monday, October 19, with walk-ins welcome and in-person appointments available in advance (per @COEmergency · X).
• Custer County location: Wetmore Community Library, 95 County Road 393, Wetmore, Colo. 81253, at the junction of Highway 67 and Highway 96, open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (per @COEmergency · X).
• Pueblo County location: Pueblo County Government, 201 West 8th Street, Suite 310, Pueblo, Colo., open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (per @COEmergency · X).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Oct 17, 2026, 10:41 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire, which began June 29, 2026, and continued burning, prompted a federal disaster declaration making low-interest SBA loans available to affected Colorado residents, businesses, and private nonprofits.

• The U.S. Small Business Administration announced the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans for those affected by the Aspen Acres Fire (per @COEmergency · X).
• The declaration covers the Colorado counties of Crowley, Custer, El Paso, Fremont, Huerfano, Las Animas, Lincoln, Otero, Pueblo, and Saguache (per @COEmergency · X).
• Businesses and private nonprofits may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets (per @COEmergency · X).
• Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence (per @COEmergency · X).
• Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances (per @COEmergency · X).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Oct 14, 2026, 10:57 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres fire in southern Colorado has caused significant destruction and an official cause has been determined.

• The fire destroyed 850 structures (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook).
• Investigators determined the fire was caused by a tree falling on a power line (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Oct 12, 2026, 10:00 PM MDT: A state report has determined the cause of the Aspen Acres Fire.

• The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control found that the Aspen Acres Fire was sparked by a wind-toppled aspen tree that brought down power lines and ignited the wildfire (per @DenverChannel · X).
• The CDFPC report was acquired by the Scripps News Group from attorneys representing victims of the Aspen Acres Fire (per @DenverChannel · X).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Oct 12, 2026, 2:05 PM MDT: The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC) has completed its final investigation into the Aspen Acres Fire. The fire has been identified as the fifth most destructive fire in Colorado history.

• The cause of the Aspen Acres Fire was determined to be an aspen tree that fell onto energized power lines near Highway 165 in Custer County, sparking the initial fire, which spread quickly due to high winds. Other possible causes — including campfire, lightning, and a dropped cigarette — were ruled out. (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook, citing the Division of Fire Prevention and Control)
• The fire burned over 102,000 acres and remains 82 percent contained, with 850 structures lost. (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Multiple lawsuits against San Isabel Electric have been filed, alleging the company failed to maintain its lines and clear trees that could fall on them. (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• DFPC's final investigation report is maintained as a criminal justice record. Members of the public, media, attorneys, and other interested parties may request a copy through the Colorado Criminal Justice Records Act (CCJRA) process via the DFPC Open Records Requests webpage. (per @COStateFire · X)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Oct 3, 2026, 11:25 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has been contained, and recovery efforts are now focused on post-fire flooding risks affecting impacted communities. Governor Polis announced additional state financial support to help counties protect lives, homes, and infrastructure from burn-scar flooding.

• The flames of the Aspen Acres Fire have been contained, though post-fire flooding remains an ongoing threat (per Joshua Johnson, Emergency Management Coordinator for the Pueblo County Sheriff's Office, as quoted in @COEmergency (X)).
• Ouray, Pueblo, and Custer Counties are among the areas impacted by the Aspen Acres Fire and are being offered state support for Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) projects (per @COEmergency (X)).
• Governor Polis announced the State will cover 75% of the non-federal cost share for EWP projects addressing post-fire flooding risks following the Aspen Acres Fire (per @COEmergency (X)).
• Under this arrangement, NRCS covers 75% of eligible construction costs; the State's new commitment reduces the local county financial responsibility from 25% of eligible construction costs to just 6.25% (per @COEmergency (X)).
• Previously, the State provided no funding toward this local sponsor match (per @COEmergency (X)).
• Colorado's support also aims to help counties preserve funds for other disaster recovery expenses, including costs associated with Colorado's partially approved Major Disaster Declaration (per @COEmergency (X)).
• Post-fire flooding has already been observed on the Aspen Acres Fire burn scar (per Trevor Denney, Director for the Colorado Office of Emergency Management, as quoted in @COEmergency (X)).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Sep 17, 2026, 7:16 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has moved into a recovery phase, with officials convening to address ongoing community needs stemming from the fire and subsequent flooding.

• Pueblo County Commissioners Paula McPheeters and Zach Swearingen, City of Pueblo Mayor Heather Graham, and local, state, and federal partners gathered September 17 for the Aspen Acres Fire Recovery Roundtable in Pueblo (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Under Secretary Glen R. Smith and Colorado State Director Sallie Clark toured areas impacted by the Aspen Acres Fire and post-fire flooding prior to the roundtable (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• The roundtable focused on disaster assistance and federal investment for water systems, public infrastructure, flood mitigation, and long-term community resiliency (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Sep 4, 2026, 1:27 PM MDT: President Trump has approved Public Assistance (PA) for Colorado's Major Disaster Declaration request related to the Aspen Acres Fire, supporting recovery in Pueblo and Custer Counties.

• Governor Jared Polis announced that President Trump approved the Public Assistance portion of Colorado's Major Disaster Declaration request for communities affected by the Aspen Acres Fire in Pueblo and Custer Counties (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook).
• The Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) will work with FEMA, local governments, and affected communities to implement the Public Assistance program (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook).
• The Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grant assistance for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and restoration and mitigation of disaster-damaged facilities (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook).
• Colorado's Individual Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Funding requests are still under review (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Sep 4, 2026, 9:08 AM MDT: President Trump has approved FEMA Public Assistance for communities impacted by the Aspen Acres Fire as part of Colorado's Major Disaster Declaration. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with additional federal assistance requests still under review.

• President Donald Trump approved Public Assistance (PA) for Colorado's Major Disaster Declaration to support communities recovering from the Aspen Acres Fire in Pueblo, Custer, and Dolores Counties (per Ouray County Government · Facebook and Ouray County Emergency Management · Facebook).
• Governor Jared Polis announced the approval (per Ouray County Government · Facebook).
• The Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) will work with FEMA, local governments, and affected communities to implement the Public Assistance program (per Ouray County Emergency Management · Facebook).
• FEMA Public Assistance provides supplemental grant assistance for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and restoration and mitigation of disaster-damaged facilities (per Ouray County Emergency Management · Facebook).
• The approved assistance can help support debris removal, emergency response, damaged roads, water systems, utilities, and other essential public infrastructure (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Colorado's Individual Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Funding requests are still under review (per Ouray County Government · Facebook).
• Pueblo County noted that families lost homes, property, and livelihoods, and that additional assistance remains under review (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Sep 4, 2026, 8:34 AM MDT: A federal Major Disaster Declaration has been approved for Colorado, supporting recovery from the Aspen Acres Fire. Public Assistance has been granted to help affected communities in multiple counties.

• The Aspen Acres Fire affected Pueblo, Custer, and Dolores Counties (per @COEmergency · X).
• President Donald Trump approved Public Assistance under Colorado's Major Disaster Declaration, as announced by Governor Jared Polis (per @COEmergency · X).
• The Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) will work with FEMA, local governments, and affected communities to implement Public Assistance (per @COEmergency · X).
• The Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grant assistance for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and restoration and mitigation of disaster-damaged facilities (per @COEmergency · X).
• Colorado's Individual Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Funding requests are still under review (per @COEmergency · X).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 27, 2026, 8:56 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire is in active recovery, with a Flood Watch now issued for the burn scar area. The fire has reached 102,004 acres at 82% containment, as reported at 8 a.m. daily by the team managing the fire.

• Size: 102,004 acres (per Colorado · news article)
• Containment: 82% (per Colorado · news article)
• A Flood Watch has been issued for the Aspen Acres fire burn scar area this afternoon and evening (per @COEmergency · X)
• Wyoming Type 3 Incident Management Team 5 is now managing fire operations (per Colorado · news article)
• State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) is at Response Level 2 and Recovery Level 1, with the State Recovery Task Force activated (per @COEmergency · X)
• All state-level community lifelines are stable (per @COEmergency · X)
• Governor Polis verbally approved a state disaster declaration on June 29 (per Colorado · news article)
• Governor Polis extended the Aspen Acres disaster declaration on August 21 (per Colorado · news article)
• Governor Polis requested a Major Disaster Declaration to support recovery on August 23 (per Colorado · news article)
• Pueblo County, Custer County, and Fremont County have each declared local emergencies (per Colorado · news article)
• FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant was approved on June 29 to cover up to 75% of eligible fire operation costs (per Colorado · news article)
• Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments were conducted July 29 and 30; DHSEM and FEMA are reviewing the data (per Colorado · news article)
• Disaster Assistance Center (Custer County): Custer County Court House, 205 S. 6th Street, Westcliffe, Colo., open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)
• Recovery Assistance Center: Beulah Heights Elementary, 2670 Delphinium St, Pueblo, Colo. 81005, open Monday–Friday 12–6 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)

🤖 AI summary of official posts and linked news coverage; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 26, 2026, 4:55 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has prompted Pueblo County Sheriff David J. Lucero to issue a letter of support for a Major Disaster Declaration for the Aspen Acres Fire and Subsequent Flooding.

• Sheriff David J. Lucero has written a letter of support for a Major Disaster Declaration related to the Aspen Acres Fire and Subsequent Flooding (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 26, 2026, 10:52 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire is in active recovery, with a Flood Watch now issued for the fire's burn scar area. A Major Disaster Declaration request has been submitted to support recovery efforts.

• Size: 102,004 acres (per Colorado · news article)
• Containment: 77% (per Colorado · news article)
• A Flood Watch has been issued for the Aspen Acres fire burn scar area this afternoon and evening (per @COEmergency · X)
• Wyoming Type 3 Incident Management Team 5 is managing fire operations (per Colorado · news article)
• June 29: Governor Polis verbally approved a state disaster declaration (per Colorado · news article)
• June 29: Pueblo County declared a local emergency (per Colorado · news article)
• June 29: Custer County declared a local emergency (per Colorado · news article)
• July 3: Fremont County declared a local emergency (per Colorado · news article)
• June 29: FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant approved to cover up to 75% of eligible fire operation costs (per Colorado · news article)
• August 21: Governor Polis extended the Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain Fire disaster declarations (per Colorado · news article)
• August 23: Governor Polis requested a Major Disaster Declaration to support recovery from the Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain Fires (per Colorado · news article)
• Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments for the Aspen Acres Fire were conducted July 29 and July 30; DHSEM and FEMA are reviewing the data (per Colorado · news article)
• Disaster Assistance Center (Custer County): Custer County Court House, 205 S. 6th Street, Westcliffe, Colo., open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)
• Recovery Assistance Center: Beulah Heights Elementary, 2670 Delphinium St, Pueblo, Colo. 81005, open Monday–Friday 12–6 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)
• State Emergency Operations Center is at Response Level 2 and Recovery Level 1, with all state-level lifelines stable (per @COEmergency · X)

🤖 AI summary of official posts and linked news coverage; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 25, 2026, 12:22 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire is in active recovery, with a flood watch now issued for its burn scar area. A Major Disaster Declaration request has been submitted to support recovery efforts.

• Size: 102,004 acres (per Colorado · news article)
• Containment: 77% (per Colorado · news article)
• A Flood Watch has been issued for the Aspen Acres fire burn scar area this afternoon and evening (per @COEmergency · X)
• Wyoming Type 3 Incident Management Team 5 is now managing fire operations (per Colorado · news article)
• On August 23, Governor Polis requested a Major Disaster Declaration to support recovery from the Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain Fires (per Colorado · news article)
• On August 21, Governor Polis extended the Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain Fire disaster declarations (per Colorado · news article)
• On June 29, Governor Polis verbally approved a state disaster declaration; Pueblo County and Custer County each declared local emergencies (per Colorado · news article)
• On July 3, Fremont County declared a local emergency (per Colorado · news article)
• FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant approved June 29 to cover up to 75% of eligible fire operation costs (per Colorado · news article)
• Disaster Assistance Center (Custer County): Custer County Court House, 205 S. 6th Street, Westcliffe, Colo., open Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)
• Recovery Assistance Center: Beulah Heights Elementary, 2670 Delphinium St, Pueblo, Colo. 81005, open Monday–Friday 12–6 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)
• Custer County Information Line: 719-467-0271, open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)

🤖 AI summary of official posts and linked news coverage; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 24, 2026, 9:36 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire stands at 102,000 acres and 77% containment. Governor Polis has requested a Major Disaster Declaration to support recovery efforts.

• Size: 102,004 acres; containment: 77%, as reported at 8 a.m. (per Colorado · news article)
• Size: 102,000 acres; containment: 77% (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• August 23: Governor Polis requested a Major Disaster Declaration to support recovery from the Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain Fires (per @COEmergency · X)
• Flood Watch issued for the Aspen Acres fire burn scar area this afternoon and evening on August 24 (per @COEmergency · X)
• State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) Response Level 2: Staff with State Agency Emergency Response Coordinators (per @COEmergency · X)
• Recovery Level 1: State Recovery Task Force Activated (per @COEmergency · X)
• All state-level lifelines are stable (per @COEmergency · X)
• August 21: Governor Polis extended the Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain Fire Disaster Declarations (per Colorado · news article)
• June 29: Gov. Polis verbally approved a state disaster declaration; Pueblo County and Custer County declared local emergencies; FEMA Fire Management Assistance Grant approved to cover up to 75% of eligible fire operation costs (per Colorado · news article)
• July 3: Fremont County declared local emergency (per Colorado · news article)
• Wyoming Type 3 Incident Management Team 5 is now managing fire operations (per Colorado · news article)
• Disaster Assistance Center (Custer County): Custer County Court House, 205 S. 6th Street, Westcliffe, Colo., Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)
• Recovery Assistance Center: Beulah Heights Elementary, 2670 Delphinium St, Pueblo, Colo. 81005, Monday–Friday 12–6 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)
• Custer County Information Line: 719-467-0271, open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (per Colorado · news article)

🤖 AI summary of official posts and linked news coverage; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 23, 2026, 11:24 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire is described as one of the worst wildfires in Colorado history, with elected leaders across Southern Colorado seeking federal support for recovery. Sheriff Rich Smith of Custer County submitted a letter of support for a Disaster Declaration by President Trump, at the request of Governor Jared Polis, to maximize federal grant support for those impacted. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

• The Aspen Acres Fire started as a three-acre fire during a wind event on June 29, quickly crossed the highway, hit the San Isabel National Forest, and grew to over 100,000 acres. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Hundreds of homes have been destroyed and thousands of families displaced. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The fire is costing the federal government over $120 million to suppress. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• FEMA has approved a 75 percent Fire Management Assistance Grant. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Sheriff Smith estimates total losses across Custer and Pueblo counties — homes, land, infrastructure, watershed, and economy — will exceed half a billion dollars. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Sheriff Smith's letter personally requests a full federal Major Disaster Declaration for Custer County, which would unlock individual assistance and mitigation funding for residents. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The letters of support cover both the Aspen Acres Fire and the Gold Mountain Fire. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Aug 17, 2026, 5:01 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres fire area is experiencing dangerous flooding following recent rainfall.

• 1 to 1½ inches of rain fell Sunday in the Beulah area, where the Aspen Acres fire is located, causing dangerous flooding. (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• The Aspen Acres fire destroyed more than 300 homes in the Beulah area. (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 16, 2026, 5:41 PM MDT: A post-fire flooding fatality has been reported in the Beulah area associated with the Aspen Acres burn scar.

• One person was killed in flooding in Beulah today after a man was swept away in fast-moving water resulting from heavy rains over the Aspen Acres burn scar (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 10, 2026, 6:29 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire continues to be addressed through ongoing recovery and administrative efforts. Evacuees seeking documentation of their evacuation are now able to access a new resource.

• An interactive site is now available for Aspen Acres evacuees who need documentation showing when and how long they were evacuated from their homes. It can be accessed at https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/e292bfdd0dbb421ba90bb0642d1c97ef or via QR code (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• A Commissioners Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday regarding debris removal, and a Commissioners Workshop is scheduled for Thursday regarding mitigation (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Special thanks were noted to the Combined Regional Communications Authority - CRCA 911, and debris removal is underway (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Aug 7, 2026, 7:00 PM MDT: Highway 165, which had been closed since the start of the Aspen Acres Fire, has reopened to all traffic. The US Forest remains closed, including Lake Isabel, with all US Forest Service roads closed except to fire vehicles.

• Highway 165 is open to all traffic as of 7:00 PM Friday (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Highway 165 had been closed since the start of the Aspen Acres Fire (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• The US Forest remains closed, including Lake Isabel (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• All US Forest Service roads remain closed except to fire vehicles (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Local flooding is expected next week; travelers should use caution (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Parking on highway shoulders is not permitted; some shoulders have been altered to allow more water flow (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 7, 2026, 1:41 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire, located 10 miles northwest of Rye, CO, remains at 71% containment with fire weather predicted to be more active over the next two days. The fire started June 29, 2026. Road and Evacuation Updates (effective 7:00 PM tonight): Weather outlook: Conditions expected to be warm, dry, and unstable; overnight humidity recovery only 30–35% at mid-elevations by Sunday; temperatures reaching the mid 90s Friday and upper 90s in lower elevations over the weekend; easterly wind gusts up to 20 mph on higher ridges and 20–25 mph in lower areas (per Huerfano County Government · Facebook) Flooding: A chance of flooding is expected next week Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook) For evacuation information: Pueblo County — www.puebloemergency.info; Custer County — facebook.com/CCSOAdmin; Huerfano County — huerfano.us/aspen-acres-fire-rye-huerfano/. Fire information line: 719-697-8353 (8:00 AM–8:00 PM).

• Size: Just under 102,000 acres (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook; consistent with Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook and Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Containment: 71% (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Total Personnel: 210 (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook) — note: earlier posts from 9:00 AM MDT reported 159 personnel (per Huerfano County Government · Facebook)
• Fire weather: Predicted to be more active over the next two days (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The fire remains within established boundaries; isolated smoke from the interior may be visible as interior fuels continue to burn (per Huerfano County Government · Facebook)
• Suppression repair is underway across the entire fire area — crews are fixing fences, cleaning out ditches, and chipping wood and brush (per Huerfano County Government · Facebook)
• Near Saint Charles Peak on the western perimeter, the primary fireline is complete; fire managers have a high level of confidence the line will hold (per Huerfano County Government · Facebook)
• Along the southwestern perimeter near San Isabel, the primary fireline is complete; firefighters continue preparing the contingency line along 369 Road (per Huerfano County Government · Facebook)
• Highway 165 and Highway 78 will reopen tonight at 7:00 PM (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Pre-evacuation status is lifted for zones C1, C2, and FS5 at 7:00 PM tonight (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The National Forest and all Forest roads remain closed (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Strict no parking on the side of the highway (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• A Fire Area Closure remains in effect on the U.S. Forest Service, Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands, San Carlos Ranger District; the Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness is open with access only through the Bartlett and Greenhorn trailheads out of Rye (per Huerfano County Government · Facebook)
• A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) covering a 7-nautical-mile radius is active from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily and applies to all aircraft, including drones and unmanned aerial systems (per Huerfano County Government · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Aug 7, 2026, 7:00 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has reached 101,965 acres with containment at 71%. A reconnaissance flight view shows the fire's edge burned up to the ridgetop but did not cross over to the other side.

• Size: 101,965 acres (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Containment: 71% (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Personnel assigned: 159 (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Agencies involved include Pueblo County Sheriff's Office, Fremont County Sheriff's Office, Huerfano County Government, Custer County Sheriff's Office, Beulah Fire Protection and Ambulance District, U.S. Forest Service – PSICC National Forest, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, and Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 5, 2026, 10:39 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire, located 10 miles northwest of Rye, CO, has reached 71% containment at 101,961 acres, with crews shifting toward suppression repair and mop-up operations. A Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command this morning.

• Size: 101,961 acres (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Containment: 71% (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Total personnel: 320 (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Start date: June 29, 2026 (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Location: 10 miles NW of Rye, CO (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• As of 7:00 AM today, a Type 3 Incident Management Team assumed command; Incident Commander Tim Ross leads the incoming team; the Incident Command Post is being established in Cañon City, Colorado (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• All evacuation statuses have been updated to cleared, except zones C1, C2, and FS-5, which remain in pre-evacuation status (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The Temporary Flight Restriction has been reduced to a 7-nautical-mile radius and is now in effect only during daytime hours, 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM; drones and unmanned aerial systems are prohibited within the TFR (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The U.S. Forest Service Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands Fire Area Closure remains in effect (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness is now open, with access only through the Bartlett and Greenhorn trailheads out of Rye (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• On the southern perimeter, infrared technology was used to identify lingering heat sources; mop-up work there resulted in the increase in overall containment percentage (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Heat and smoke are expected to persist within the fire's interior for an extended duration due to heavy concentrations of dead and down fuels (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Air quality is expected to be good to moderate; long-distance smoke from northwest fires may cause fluctuations (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• A chance of thunderstorms exists today, with decreasing likelihood as air becomes drier; primary concerns if storms develop are lightning and sudden gusty winds; warmer and drier weather is expected into the weekend (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Pueblo County is accepting applications through Aug. 16 for a Manager of Community Recovery and Resilience position related to Aspen Acres Fire recovery (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Aug 4, 2026, 9:07 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire continues to be actively managed by the Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 3, with significant containment progress reported.

• Size: 101,961 acres (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Containment: 71% (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Personnel assigned: 366 (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Operations Section Chief: Chris Rokosh (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 3, 2026, 4:36 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres fire is active, with the Incident Management Team downgrading from a Level 1 to a Level 3.

• The Incident Management Team is downgrading from a Level 1 to a Level 3 (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• A community meeting open to the public is scheduled for tonight at 7:00 p.m. in Colorado City (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Aug 3, 2026, 9:20 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire is being managed by Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 3, with significant containment progress reported.

• Size: 101,961 acres (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Containment: 67% (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Personnel assigned: 433 (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Operations Section Chief: Chris Rokosh (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Aug 2, 2026, 7:44 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire, located 10 miles northwest of Rye, CO, continues to moderate in activity as the incident management team begins downsizing resources while crews secure containment lines and conduct suppression repair. COMMUNITY MEETING: Rocky Mountain CIMT 3 will host a community meeting Monday, August 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at PJ Craver Middle School, 4850 Crow Cut Off Road, Colorado City, to discuss fire status, strategic action plans to protect San Isabel and the San Isabel Watershed, post-fire recovery, and potential weather impacts (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook) WEATHER: Sunday and Monday temperatures up to 92°F, minimum humidity down to 11%, wind gusts of 25 mph during the day and up to 30 mph overnight. A cold front Monday evening will bring cooler temperatures, gusty north winds, and thunderstorms capable of producing flash flooding and debris flows on the burn scar (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook) CLOSURES AND EVACUATIONS: AIR QUALITY: Air quality is good overall; moderate morning conditions observed at Westcliffe, Beulah, and San Isabel due to long-range transport of smoke from Pacific Northwest fires (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook) Fire information line: 719-697-8353 (8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.)

• Start date: June 29, 2026 (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Size: 101,961 acres (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Containment: 67% (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Total personnel: 520 (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Crews on the southwest portion of the fire are securing and reinforcing main containment lines; felling teams are removing fire-weakened trees and hazardous logs near the line (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Pockets of unburned vegetation within the established fire perimeter continue to burn, smolder, and produce visible smoke; local crews are monitoring and patrolling containment lines (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Firefighters are collecting hose, pumps, and other tactical gear and returning equipment to national supply caches; other crews are performing suppression repair including smoothing dozer lines, scattering cut vegetation, and implementing erosion-prevention measures (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• A Fire Area Closure on the San Carlos Ranger District of the Pike, San Isabel, Comanche and Cimarron National Forest has been reduced (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• The Greenhorn Mountain Wilderness is now open, with access only through the Bartlett and Greenhorn trailheads out of Rye (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place above the fire area; all aircraft including drones are prohibited within the TFR (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• For evacuation information: Pueblo County at www.puebloemergency.info, Custer County at the Custer County Sheriff's Office Facebook page, Huerfano County at https://huerfano.us/aspen-acres-fire-rye-huerfano/ (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 30, 2026, 11:30 PM MDT: Flooding in the Beulah area, associated with the Aspen Acres Fire burn scar, caused damage and debris on roads. Cleanup efforts are ongoing.

• A preliminary damage assessment in Beulah found at least 8 homes were damaged by Wednesday night's (July 29) flooding. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The majority of mud and debris caused by the Aspen Acres Fire burn scar has been cleared from roads, and there are no road closures at this time. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Cleanup continues; drivers are advised to be aware of and cautious around heavy equipment and workers on the roads. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Jul 30, 2026, 7:10 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire continues to prompt evacuation orders and fire management actions in the area. Flooding from the fire's burn scar caused damage in Beulah on July 29.

• A new mandatory evacuation has been issued for Spruce Lane in San Isabel (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Fire restrictions have been lowered from Level 3 to Level 1 to allow some commercial burn piles to be burned with fire department approval and a fire department truck staged on scene (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• A preliminary assessment found at least 8 homes were damaged in Beulah due to flooding on the night of July 29, with the majority of mud and debris from the Aspen Acres Fire burn scar cleared from roads (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook, Jul 30, 2026, 5:14 PM MDT).
• There are no road closures at this time, though drivers are advised to be cautious around heavy equipment and workers on the roads (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 30, 2026, 5:42 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire burn scar is contributing to ongoing flood and debris impacts in the surrounding area, with evacuation orders in effect in Custer County and flood damage reported in Beulah.

• A mandatory evacuation has been issued for residents along Custer County Road 378 (also known as Spruce Lane) due to unsafe conditions following flooding. This applies only to residents of CR 378/Spruce Lane. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook, Jul 30, 2026, 3:10 PM MDT)
• A preliminary damage assessment in Beulah from Wednesday night's (July 29) flooding indicates at least 8 homes were damaged. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The majority of mud and debris caused by the Aspen Acres Fire burn scar has been cleared from roads, and there are no road closures at this time. Cleanup continues; drivers are advised to be aware of heavy equipment and workers on the roads. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Custer County has issued evacuation stages for the Aspen Acres Fire; residents are encouraged to share that information with friends and family. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 29, 2026, 6:26 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has displaced residents in the Beulah area, and a flash flood warning is now in effect for the fire's burn scar, creating an additional life-threatening hazard.

• The Custer County Sheriff's Office is involved with the Aspen Acres Fire (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook).
• A flash flood WARNING is in effect for the Aspen Acres burn scar in Beulah. Residents are urged not to travel through moving or standing water, to evacuate to higher ground immediately, and to call 9-1-1 if help is needed (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Pueblo County has developed a temporary approval process to allow displaced residents to stay in an RV on their property while recovering and rebuilding. Residents are encouraged to contact the Pueblo County Department of Planning and Development for guidance based on their individual circumstances (per COEmergency · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 29, 2026, 9:12 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire, located 10 miles NW of Rye, CO, has grown to 101,921 acres and is 66% contained, with monsoon-driven flooding now posing an additional hazard across the fire area. Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are underway as officials work toward a potential federal disaster declaration.

• Size: 101,921 acres; containment: 66%; total personnel: 706 (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook; Teller County Sheriff's Office · Facebook; Huerfano County Government · Facebook)
• Fire started June 29, 2026 (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Operations are managed by Rocky Mountain Complex Incident Management Team 3; Operations Section Chief is Nick Collard (per Teller County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Afternoon thunderstorms yesterday caused an elevated risk of flooding across the fire area; debris flows occurred in recently burned areas within the fire perimeter (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Community members should monitor emergency alerts and be prepared to act in case of flash flooding or changes in fire activity (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• In the northeastern part of the fire, firefighters are conducting suppression repair on fire lines; heavy machinery is repairing dozer line and hand crews are fixing fences cut during suppression activities (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• On the northwest edge, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) are scouting for remaining heat along the fire perimeter (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• South of Saint Charles Peak and around San Isabel, crews are strengthening indirect primary control lines; fire behavior was minimal yesterday due to rain and cloud cover (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Northwest of Rye, crews continue to hold and improve lines protecting the community (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• The Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team is conducting assessments of post-fire hazards, including burn severity and potential impacts to critical infrastructure, watersheds, and natural resources (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Today's weather: high probability of showers and thunderstorms, slightly cooler temperatures, relative humidity expected to remain above 40% across much of the fire footprint, temperatures in the upper 60s to low 70s at upper elevations; weather expected to trend warmer and drier toward the end of the week (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for the afternoon and evening for the eastern Mountains and plains, including the Aspen Acres Fire area (per Teller County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• A Fire Area Closure is in place on the San Carlos Ranger District of the Pike, San Isabel, Comanche and Cimarron National Forest (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place above the fire area; all aircraft including drones are prohibited within the TFR (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Evacuation information is available through Pueblo County (www.puebloemergency.info), Custer County (Facebook: CCSOAdmin), and Huerfano County (huerfano.us/aspen-acres-fire-rye-huerfano/) (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• An Air Resource Advisor is assigned to the incident and assessing smoke impacts on communities; daily air quality information is available at fire.airnow.gov (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)
• Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments are being conducted July 29–30 with representatives from Pueblo County, Custer County, DHSEM, SBA, Colorado 211, and FEMA — the first step required for the state to determine whether to request a major disaster declaration from the governor (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Assessments cover both FEMA Public Assistance (damages to public infrastructure in Pueblo and Custer counties) and Individual Assistance (damages to individuals' primary homes in Pueblo and Custer counties) programs (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• There is no specific timeline for the federal government to approve or deny requests for presidential disaster declarations (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Custer County Sheriff's Posse volunteers donated 1,621 hours of service in July, most of them at the Aspen Acres Fire, including guarding evacuated neighborhoods, manning roadblocks, conducting door-to-door evacuation notifications, and assisting at community meetings (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Fire information line: 719-697-8353, available 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; email: 2026.aspenacres@firenet.gov (per Wetmore Volunteer Fire Department · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts and linked news coverage; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 28, 2026, 4:18 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire continues to affect residents in the Custer and Pueblo County areas. Heavy rain and debris flow were reported across Highway 165 south of Highway 78, and disaster assistance and recovery efforts are ongoing.

• Heavy rain and debris flow occurred across Highway 165 south of Highway 78 (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Disaster assistance located in Westcliffe will be relocating next week to the Custer County Courthouse, near the Veterans Service Officer Office on the north side of the building (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• Pueblo County may allow property owners whose homes were lost or damaged in the Aspen Acres Fire to temporarily live in an RV on their property while rebuilding. Key requirements include: the RV must be limited to the displaced property owner and their household; only one RV is allowed per property; the RV cannot be rented, used as a short-term rental, or occupied by contractors or other workers (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• The RV must be licensed and roadworthy, located on private property, and must not block emergency access (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• A temporary electrical service permit is required for up to 180 days; permit requirements vary for plumbing depending on water and wastewater method used (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• A building permit to reconstruct or replace a home must be obtained within six months. Property owners must sign and have notarized an acknowledgment agreeing to the RV occupancy conditions (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).
• For questions about permits or eligibility, Pueblo County directs residents to contact the Pueblo County Planning & Development Department at 719-583-6100 before placing an RV on their property (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 27, 2026, 4:54 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has burned 101,921 acres and is 66% contained, with crews still actively working the fire. Evacuations have been lifted in some areas, though several zones remain in pre-evacuation status.

• Fire size: 101,921 acres as of 10:30 a.m. Jul 27 (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Containment: 66% as of 10:30 a.m. Jul 27 (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Personnel: 881 involved as of 10:30 a.m. Jul 27 (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Incident Commander: Rich Cowger is outgoing; Northern Rockies Team 6 Operations Section Chief Ben Wagner delivered the morning operational briefing (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Evacuation Zones C1, C2, C3, and C4 all remain in pre-evacuation status; the fire is not fully contained and residents in these zones may be asked to evacuate again based on fire behavior or weather (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Evacuations have been lifted in other areas; pet owners who used the animal shelter may retrieve animals at the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region's Pueblo Shelter, 4600 Eagleridge Pl., by contacting HSPPR at (719) 544-3005 (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The large animal/livestock shelter at the Colorado State Fair has closed as the last animals went home (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Highway 165 remains open to residents only; a re-entry card is required, available at the Disaster Assistance Center at Lange Hall, 310 S 3rd Street, Westcliffe, Monday–Friday 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.–2 p.m., with photo ID or proof of residency (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Burn scar flood risk remains elevated; heavy rain can produce flash flooding and debris flows with little warning, including from storms miles away (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Sandbags filled by more than 80 volunteers are available for residents at Aspen Acres and in San Isabel; residents are encouraged to pick them up and place them around their property (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• A Cell on Wheels has been set up in San Isabel to provide phone connectivity so residents can receive IPAWS emergency alerts (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• A Recovery Assistance Center is open at Beulah Heights Elementary, 2670 Delphinium, Monday–Friday, Noon to 6 p.m. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Demolition permits are required when fire-damaged structures are removed; Pueblo County has reduced building permit fees to lessen the financial burden on property owners (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Mental health support is available by calling or texting 988, free and confidential, 24 hours a day (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 27, 2026, 9:07 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has reached 101,921 acres and is 66% contained, with 881 total personnel assigned. Fire management is transitioning to a new incident command team, and burn scar flood risk remains elevated. COMMAND TRANSFER: FIRE ACTIVITY: FLOOD RISK: WEATHER: EVACUATIONS: CLOSURES:

• Location: 10 miles NW of Rye, CO, in Custer and Pueblo Counties (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Start date: Reported June 29, 2026, around 6:00 a.m. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Cause: Human, under investigation (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Size: 101,921 acres (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Containment: 66% (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Total personnel: 881 (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Acreage breakdown: 61,036 acres private/unknown; 39,128 acres USFS; 660 acres state; 585 acres local government; 512 acres BLM (per Wildfire news article)
• The fire experienced explosive growth due to record low fuel moisture levels, persistent red flag conditions, and wind-driven fire with 40+ mph winds and gusts estimated up to 100 mph; it has impacted the community of Beulah, CO (per Wildfire news article)
• This is the last daily update from Northern Rockies Complex Incident Management Team 6; management will transfer to Rocky Mountain CIMT 3 tomorrow morning at 6:00 a.m. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The transfer of command is scheduled for July 28, 2026, at 0700 (per Wildfire news article)
• On Sunday, fire activity on most of the fire line was minimal; along the west perimeter, crews continued to strengthen primary and secondary lines (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• North of Rye, fire activity flared up slightly and smoke was visible on Sunday; firefighters kept fire within containment lines and prevented new fire growth (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• In the last week, firefighters contained multiple new starts caused by lightning nearby (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Near San Isabel, pockets of unburned fuel remain between active fire lines and the community; firefighters and UAS resources are prepared to begin tactical burning operations when conditions allow (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Fire behavior is described as minimal, creeping, flanking, and backing (per Wildfire news article)
• Burn scar flood risk remains elevated; heavy rain can produce flash flooding and debris flows with little warning (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• In Custer County, over 85 volunteers helped fill and load sandbags on Sunday; homeowners are encouraged to pick them up in San Isabel and Aspen Acres (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Residents should keep emergency alerts on and be prepared to leave again if flash flooding or fire conditions worsen (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Warm, dry trend expected to continue; temperatures ranging from the lower 100s at lower elevations to the low 70s at higher elevations; thunderstorms expected this evening with lightning, gusty outflow winds, and moderate to heavy rainfall (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• This afternoon, afternoon relative humidity values ran 3–6% lower and temperatures 2–5 degrees warmer; temperatures ranged from near 100 degrees on lower slopes, mid 80s at mid-elevation, and low 70s along ridgelines; relative humidity values were in the 17–24% range across low-mid elevations and the low 30% range along upper ridgelines; winds remained easterly at 5 to 10 mph (per Wildfire news article)
• All evacuations have been reduced to pre-evacuation or clear; only residents with a re-entry card will be allowed in (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Pueblo County: Zones P8, P11, FS1, FS2, FS3, FS4, FS5, and FS6 are in pre-evacuation status; all other zones are clear; re-entry cards available at the Recovery Assistance Center at 2670 Delphinium Street in Pueblo (reopens at noon Monday) (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Custer County: Zones C1, C2, C3, C4, C9b, and C5c remain in pre-evacuation status; all other zones are clear; re-entry cards available at the Disaster Assistance Center, 310 S 3rd Street, Westcliffe, CO 81252, Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–3 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.–2 p.m. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Huerfano County: Zones H16, H17, and H1 have been reduced to pre-evacuation status (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Aspen Acres Fire Area Closure is in effect for the San Carlos Ranger District (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place above the fire area; all aircraft including drones are prohibited within the TFR (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts and linked news coverage; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 26, 2026, 4:37 PM MDT: Post-fire flood and debris flow risk is a current concern for residents affected by the Aspen Acres Fire, with the burn scar reducing the ground's ability to absorb water.

• Sandbags are now available for impacted residents at two locations: San Isabel Lodge, and across the highway from the Aspen Acres Campground (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook and COEmergency · Facebook).
• Residents who are downhill or downstream from burned ground are encouraged to place sandbags before the next storm as protection against flash flooding and debris flows (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook).

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels.

As of Jul 26, 2026, 7:27 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has burned 101,879 acres and is 61% contained, with evacuation pre-evacuation orders still in effect for several zones. Residents in affected areas are urged to stay prepared for potential evacuation.

• Size: 101,879 acres (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook, 6:30 AM MDT)
• Containment: 61% (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook, 6:30 AM MDT)
• Personnel: 972 (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook, 6:30 AM MDT)
• Evacuation Zones C1, C2, C3, and C4 remain in pre-evacuation status; residents may be asked to evacuate again based on fire behavior or weather (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Highway 165 is open to residents only, accessible from both Rye and McKenzie Junction at Hwy 96 and Hwy 165; a re-entry card with zone number is required at the traffic control point (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Re-entry cards are available at the Disaster Assistance Center, Lange Hall, 310 S 3rd Street, Westcliffe, CO 81252; hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; photo ID or proof of residency required (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The burn scar presents a lasting flood risk; heavy rain can cause flash flooding and debris flows with little warning (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Residents are advised to keep a battery-powered NOAA weather radio with extra batteries and to register for Everbridge alerts due to limited cell service in affected areas (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Volunteers are needed Sunday, July 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Road and Bridge yard, 213 4th Street, Westcliffe, to fill and load sandbags; meals will be provided (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 25, 2026, 10:53 AM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has burned 101,738 acres and is 61% contained, with all evacuation zones now reduced to pre-evacuation or clear status as of this morning. Two lightning-caused fires were detected near the fire yesterday, and firefighters remain alert for additional ignitions. Key facts:

• Location: 10 miles NW of Rye, CO, in Custer and Pueblo Counties. Start date: June 29, 2026, around 6:00 a.m. Cause: human, under investigation. (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Size: 101,738 acres. Containment: 61%. Total personnel: 945. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• As of this morning, Saturday July 25, all evacuation zones have been reduced either to pre-evacuation or clear status. Residents in pre-evacuation zones must obtain a re-entry card from their respective county and should be prepared to leave again if conditions worsen. (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Pueblo County: Zone FS5 evacuation lifted to pre-evacuation status at 10:00 a.m. today. Zones P1, FS1, FS2, FS3, FS4, FS5, P8, and P11 remain in pre-evacuation status. Re-entry cards available at the Recovery Assistance Center, 2670 Delphinium Street, Pueblo — closed Saturday and Sunday, reopens at noon Monday. (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Custer County: Zone C1 lifted to pre-evacuation status this morning; Highway 165 reopens to residents only at 10:00 a.m. today. Access points are the checkpoint outside Rye on 165 and McKenzie Junction at Hwy 96 and Hwy 165. Zones C2, C3, C4, C9b, and C5c remain in pre-evacuation status. Zone C2 (San Isabel area) opened yesterday. Re-entry cards available at the Disaster Assistance Center, Lange Hall, 310 S 3rd Street, Westcliffe — Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday–Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; bring photo ID or proof of residency. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Huerfano County: Zones H16, H17, and H1 reduced to pre-evacuation status. (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Fremont County: Awareness status in place. (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Two lightning-caused fires were detected near the Aspen Acres Fire yesterday; air and ground resources responded to both. Additional lightning is expected through the week. (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Near San Isabel, an approximately 100-acre spot fire reported earlier this week remains secure. (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Burn scar flood risk remains elevated. Heavy rain can produce flash flooding and debris flows with little warning, including from storms miles away. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Sandbag filling volunteers needed Sunday, July 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 213 4th Street, Westcliffe, CO 81252. Meals will be provided. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Area closure in effect for the San Carlos Ranger District. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is in place above the fire area; drones and all aircraft are prohibited within the TFR. (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Weather today: temperatures ranging from the low 70s at higher elevations to upper 90s at lower elevations; winds 5–10 mph with gusts up to 30 mph; 30% chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms this afternoon. (per COEmergency · Facebook)
• Returning residents should watch for burned trees, damaged utility lines, damaged propane tanks, and hot spots; have propane systems inspected before use; have water tested before drinking or cooking; and be aware that cell service is limited — a battery-powered NOAA weather radio is recommended. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Mental health support available by calling or texting 988, free and confidential, 24 hours a day. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Fire information line: 719-697-8353. Email: 2026.aspenacres@firenet.gov. (per COEmergency · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 24, 2026, 4:49 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire remains active with crews still working and the fire not fully contained. Evacuation zones are being progressively lifted in both Pueblo and Custer counties, while residents are urged to stay ready for potential re-evacuation.

• The Pueblo County Joint Information Center closed at 3 p.m. today after operating for 24 days since June 29. Updated information will continue through puebloemergency.info and social media channels including Facebook: pueblosheriff, aspenacresfire2026, and X: @pueblocountySO. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Evacuations for Zone FS-5 in Pueblo County are being lifted effective 10 a.m. Saturday, July 25. The area will be on pre-evacuation status. Residents only will be allowed entry, and firefighting activities are still ongoing; residents may be asked to leave again for defensive burning operations and increased fire activity. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Re-entry cards are required to access Zone FS-5 and are available at the Recovery Assistance Center at Beulah Heights Elementary, 2670 Delphinium Street in Pueblo. The RAC closes at 6 p.m. today, will not be open Saturday or Sunday, and reopens at Noon Monday. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• In Custer County, Evacuation Zone C2 (San Isabel) opened to residents at 10 a.m. today. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Evacuation Zone C1 opens Saturday at 10 a.m. Highway 165 reopens to residents only at that time; residents may enter from Rye or from the checkpoint at McKenzie Junction at Highway 165 and Highway 96. A re-entry card is required, available at the DAC. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Evacuation Zones C1, C2, C3, and C4 are all in pre-evacuation status. Residents should be ready to leave quickly if conditions change. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• A portable unit is being delivered to the area Saturday so residents can receive IPAWS wireless emergency alerts. Cell coverage in these areas is limited; residents are strongly recommended to have a battery-powered NOAA weather radio with extra batteries. Residents can also register for Everbridge alerts at public.everbridge.net. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Flood risk is present in the burn scar area. The burn scar cannot absorb water as it previously did, and heavy rain can bring flash flooding and debris flows in minutes, even from a storm miles away. Residents are urged to keep emergency alerts on, watch the forecast, and move to higher ground early. (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• An ALS Response Ambulance from the Springfield EMS Association and Springfield Volunteer Fire Department has been deployed to assist at the Aspen Acres Fire, supporting communities including Beulah, Rye, and Colorado City. (per Rocky Ford Fire Department · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 24, 2026, 2:32 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres Fire has reached 101,738 acres and is 61% contained, with evacuations lifted and residents returning to their homes.

• Size: 101,738 acres (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Containment: 61% (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Personnel: 1,163 (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Incident management: Northern Rockies Team 6 Operations Section Chief Ben Wagner is leading operational briefings (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Firefighters from across the county are staying at CSU Pueblo while supporting fire operations (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Evacuations have been lifted and residents are returning to their homes (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• The Pueblo County Evacuation Center at 1650 Cooper Place is closing operations at 5 p.m. today, July 24, but will remain on standby if needed (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)
• Individuals needing services may visit the Recovery Assistance Center at Beulah Heights Elementary School, 2670 Delphinium St., open Monday through Friday from Noon to 6 p.m. (per Pueblo County Sheriff's Office · Facebook)

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.

As of Jul 23, 2026, 6:38 PM MDT: The Aspen Acres fire remains active in the San Isabel area, with crews still working to complete containment lines and conduct burning operations. A Flash Flood Warning is now in effect for the North and Middle Aspen Acres Burn Scar, posing a life-threatening risk through 9:30 PM MDT. Flash Flood Warning (per Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook, resharing National Weather Service Pueblo CO): Evacuation and Re-entry (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook): Utilities and Safety in Zone C2 (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook): Disaster Assistance Center (per COEmergency · Facebook and Custer County Sheriff's Office · Facebook):

• A Flash Flood Warning is in effect for the North and Middle Aspen Acres Burn Scar in East Central Custer County and West Central Pueblo County until 9:30 PM MDT.
• At 6:26 PM MDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain over the burn scar. Up to 0.2 inches of rain had already fallen; expected rainfall rate is 1 to 2 inches in 1 hour, with additional amounts up to 1 inch possible.
• Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly. Excessive rainfall over the burn scar will result in debris flow consisting of rock, mud, vegetation, and other loose materials.
• Flash flood damage threat is rated CONSIDERABLE.
• Locations that will experience flash flooding include Beulah, Beulah Water Intake, Northcreek Road from the county line to Red Mountain Camp, and Northcreek Road from Red Mountain Camp to Beulah.
• If you encounter flood waters, climb to safety.
• Zone C2 (San Isabel area) will open to residents Friday, July 24 at 10:00 a.m. Access is only through McKenzie Junction; a re-entry card is required.
• Upon re-entry, Zone C2 will be in pre-evacuation status. Overnight stays are allowed, but residents must be prepared to leave immediately if asked. Do not bring animals, extra vehicles, RVs, boats, or trailers.
• Highway 165 remains closed to everyone except residents with a re-entry card.
• Zone C10 is clear. No evacuation orders remain in C10.
• There is still active fire in the area; residents will be able to see smoke and flames.
• There is no cell service in Zone C2. Bring a NOAA weather radio with extra batteries and register for Everbridge alerts.
• There is no power in Zone C2. Have propane inspected before use; do not turn gas back on yourself. Septic systems may need inspection.
• If you have water, have it tested before drinking, cooking, or giving it to animals. Drinking water is available across the highway from the Aspen Acres Campground.
• Located at Lange Hall, 310 S 3rd Street, Westcliffe, CO 81252.
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Re-entry cards issued at the DAC; bring photo ID or proof of residency. Water testing kits also available there.
• Mental health support: call or text 988, free and confidential, 24 hours a day.

🤖 AI summary of official posts; may lag or contain errors — verify with the source and official channels. ⚠️ Not an official evacuation order — follow your sheriff/emergency management.