Alexander Mountain Fire Grows, New Evacuations Ordered

The Alexander Mountain Fire, burning west of Loveland in Larimer County, Colorado, has grown to approximately 992 acres with 0% containment as of Tuesday morning. The fire, which began on Monday morning, has prompted mandatory evacuations over a 37 square-mile area and led to road closures, including U.S. 34 to Estes Park. Firefighting efforts involve over 200 ground crew members and multiple aircraft, including helicopters and air tankers. High temperatures and low humidity are expected to complicate containment efforts. Evacuation centers have been set up at Foundations Church and the Estes Park Events Complex, while animal evacuations are being managed at The Ranch. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but weeks of hot, dry weather have contributed to its rapid spread.