ENVIRONMENT

Colorado declares disaster as Snyder Mesa wildfire expands

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Colorado Governor Jared Polis has declared a state of disaster emergency as multiple fast-moving wildfires intensify on the state’s Western Slope. The declaration, signed Saturday, June 27, 2026, authorizes deployment of the Colorado National Guard and activates the State Emergency Operations Plan. The Snyder Mesa Fire, which began in Utah and has burned more than 28,000 acres, crossed into Mesa County, prompting pre-evacuation notices. State agencies are directed to coordinate incident management and resource allocation. Further south in Ouray County, the Gold Mountain Fire has forced mandatory evacuations and the closure of a major highway amid extreme fire weather conditions.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Earlier this week Snyder Mesa Fire ignites
Saturday Snyder Mesa Fire crosses Colorado border
Saturday Mesa County issues pre-evacuation notices
Saturday Governor Polis verbally declares disaster
Saturday State Emergency Operations Plan activated
Saturday Colorado National Guard deployment authorized
Saturday Gold Mountain Fire grows near Ouray
Saturday Highway closed as evacuations ordered

Why This Matters to You

Wildfires can spread rapidly and unpredictably. If you're in Colorado, especially on the Western Slope, stay alert. Check local news for evacuation orders. Have a plan ready for your family and pets. It's about safety first.

The Bottom Line

The Snyder Mesa and Gold Mountain Fires are serious. They're causing evacuations and highway closures. Officials are doing their best to manage the situation. It's worth forwarding if you know someone in the affected areas.